Mohammed Shosanya
A non-governmental group, Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora(NPID), has faulted attacks and calls for the sack of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL),Engineer Mele Kyari.
The group conveyed this in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Dr. Segun Adeyemi,and made available to Premium News On Saturday.
The group expressed unwavering support for Kyari’s stewardship in the NNPCL as well as passed a vote of confidence in his sterling leadership.
Adeyemi said the group would stand with him to continue the great job he has been doing to reposition the oil and gas sector.
He described the recent criticisms and allegations against Kyari as unfounded and lack substantial evidence.
He noted that Kyari has a wide range of support from the stakeholders, including industry leaders, members of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK and representatives from the media.
The group agreed to ensure the real facts and right information get to the public on the ongoing discussions surrounding the NNPCL’s leadership and performance.
The Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora (NPID) comprises prominent Nigerian professionals residing in the Diaspora.
Adeyemi said: “We have carefully examined the allegations and concerns raised against Mallam Kyari, and we firmly believe that these criticisms are not only unfair but also fail to recognise the significant progress and achievements made under his leadership.
“The NNPCL, under Mallam Kyari’s guidance, has made tremendous strides in areas such as operational efficiency, financial performance, and the implementation of key industry reforms.
“These achievements have had a tangible and positive impact on the Nigerian economy and the lives of our fellow citizens, both at home and in the Diaspora.
“As Nigerian professionals living and working outside of our homeland, we have been closely following the recent discourse surrounding the leadership of the NNPCL, and we feel it is our responsibility to contribute to this important discussion.
“We have carefully examined the achievements and contributions of Mallam Mele Kyari during his tenure as the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL, and we are proud to say that he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and commitment to the transformation of the Nigerian oil and gas sector.
“Under Mallam Kyari’s stewardship, the NNPCL has undergone a remarkable transformation, transitioning from a largely opaque and bureaucratic institution to a more streamlined, transparent, and commercially-oriented entity.
“This has allowed the company to become more responsive to the needs of the Nigerian people and the broader industry, both within the country and on the global stage.
“We, the Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora, unequivocally pass a vote of confidence in Mallam Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL.
“We believe that he is the right person to lead the company through the current challenges and into a prosperous future for the benefit of all Nigerians, both at home and abroad.”
Adeyemi added that the NNPCL requires a man of experience and deep expertise.
“The oil and gas industry is a strategic sector for the Nigerian economy, and it requires steady and capable leadership to navigate the complexities and uncertainties that lie ahead.
“Mallam Kyari has demonstrated his ability to steer the NNPCL in the right direction, and we believe that his continued leadership is crucial for the company’s long-term success and the overall development of the Nigerian oil and gas industry, both within the country and on the international stage.
“We urge all Nigerians, from industry leaders to policy-makers and the general public, to rally behind Mallam Mele Kyari and the NNPCL as they work to fulfil their mandate and contribute to the sustainable growth and prosperity of our nation,” he said.
