Two northern groups, the Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network (NAN), have commended former Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, for his contributions to the oil and gas sector during his tenure under Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In separate statements issued on Thursday, AYCF President General Yerima Shettima and NAN Chairman Salihu Suleiman highlighted Kyari’s role in advancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency within NNPCL.

Shettima described Kyari’s leadership since his appointment in 2019 as a period of significant reform, saying, “Since his appointment on July 8, 2019, Mr. Kyari has been a beacon of innovative reforms, guiding the NNPCL with a robust operational blueprint that has not only reduced costs but also improved profitability for the national oil company.”

He credited Kyari with introducing the Transparency, Accountability, and Performance Excellence (TAPE) agenda, which he said helped to address inefficiencies within the corporation. “His strategic focus on operational efficiency and transparency has marked a significant departure from the past, ushering in an era of accountability that has been long overdue for an organisation historically plagued by corruption and mismanagement,” Shettima said.

On refinery rehabilitation, Shettima noted: “One of the most notable achievements during Mr. Kyari’s tenure has been the partnership with Italian oil giant Eni to rehabilitate and upgrade our nation’s refineries. This initiative not only promises to enhance local refining capabilities but also aims to significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products, a critical step towards energy independence and economic self-sufficiency.”

Suleiman, on his part, pointed to Kyari’s role in resolving a $2.4 billion debt owed to international oil companies (IOCs), describing it as a key milestone. He also commended Kyari’s role in subsidy removal, noting, “While initially challenging, the removal of fuel subsidies has liberated resources and opened avenues for investment. This reform has created a more stable economic landscape, allowing NNPCL to focus on its core activities, including improving gas infrastructure and expanding renewable energy efforts.”

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Suleiman further stated that Kyari’s leadership helped position NNPCL as a more competitive entity in the global energy market. “His ability to steer NNPC into becoming a limited liability company significantly improved its financial stability and operational efficiency, setting a precedent for future management,” he added.

Both groups expressed optimism that Kyari’s successor would continue with the reforms initiated under his leadership. “We wish Mr. Mele Kyari all the best in his future endeavours and hope that his legacy of excellence will inspire future leaders in the oil and gas sector,” Shettima said.