President Bola Tinubu has extended heartfelt congratulations to Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), as he celebrates his 60th birthday, commending his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to transforming Nigeria’s national oil company.
Kyari, who rose from humble beginnings as a beneficiary of the Almajiri (Tsangaya) school system to become the head of Africa’s largest energy company, expressed deep gratitude for the opportunities he has received. Reflecting on his remarkable journey, he acknowledged the vital roles played by Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Tinubu in his career, alongside the numerous personal and professional challenges he has overcome.
“I am deeply grateful to my country for enabling me to evolve from an Almajiri pupil into the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company. I especially appreciate the trust bestowed upon me by Presidents Buhari and Tinubu to serve as the last GMD of NNPC and the first CEO of NNPCL,” Kyari shared on his X handle.
In his birthday message, President Tinubu lauded Kyari for his invaluable contributions to the growth and transformation of NNPCL, noting significant achievements such as the revitalization of two refineries, an increase in domestic natural gas consumption, and a rise in oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.
“Despite initial skepticism, NNPCL under Kyari’s leadership has recorded notable achievements, thanks to his tireless commitment to Nigeria’s energy sector,” Tinubu stated in a message conveyed by his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The President also commended Kyari’s professionalism throughout his tenure at NNPC, OPEC, and now at NNPCL, describing him as a model of the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Tinubu concluded by praying for Kyari’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength as he shapes the future of Nigeria’s energy sector and mentors the next generation of leaders.
