Transformative Leadership: Bayo Ojulari’s Next Big Move as NNPC's New CEO

Updated Thursday 10 April 2025 15:0

Meet Bayo Ojulari: Former Managing Director Shell appointed CEO of NNPC

Bashir Bayo Ojulari has been named the new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited by President Bola Tinubu.

Following a comprehensive board revamp that included the dismissal of former GCEO Mele Kyari and NNPC chairman Chief Pius Akinyelure, as well as other board members nominated in November 2023, presidential adviser Bayo Onanuga made the statement on April 2.

It is anticipated that Ojulari, a seasoned professional with more than thirty years of expertise, will take office right away. His nomination comes at a crucial time for NNPC as it manages production issues, continuing energy reforms, and Nigeria's overall economic plan.

Did you know? You can comment on this post! Just scroll down

Bayo Ojulari , early life & career

Born and raised in Nigeria, Ojulari’s journey to the pinnacle of the country’s petroleum sector began at Ahmadu Bello University, where he earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering in 1989.

His academic background laid the groundwork for a career defined by technical expertise and strategic leadership in oil exploration, production, and energy management.
Soon after graduation, he began his career as a Fields and Process Engineer at Elf Petroleum Nigeria in 1989, gaining hands-on experience in production systems and operational efficiency.
His technical acumen quickly earned him a place at Shell, one of the world’s largest oil companies, where he would spend the next 24 years honing his expertise and rising through the ranks.

Decades at Shell: From Engineer to Managing Director

Ojulari’s tenure at Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company (SNEPCo) was marked by transformative leadership.

From 2015 to 2021, he served as the company’s Managing Director, overseeing Shell’s deepwater assets, including the massive Bonga oil field, Nigeria’s first deepwater project.
Under his leadership, Shell’s deepwater operations expanded, producing up to 320,000 barrels per day, while he spearheaded cost-saving measures that reduced operational expenses by 30% and boosted production efficiency by 20%.

Beyond operational success, he played a crucial role in renegotiating production-sharing contracts and securing agreements for multibillion-dollar projects.

His ability to navigate complex regulatory landscapes and commercial negotiations helped secure investment in Nigeria’s offshore oil sector, a critical component of the nation’s economy.

Prior to his tenure as MD, Ojulari held key leadership roles within Shell, including Development Director at Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) from 2010 to 2015, where he managed petroleum engineering operations for over 100 oil and gas fields and oversaw projects with a combined budget of $700 million.

More insights

Following his time at Shell, Ojulari transitioned to the private sector, where he continued to influence Nigeria’s energy landscape. In 2021, he founded BAT Advisory & Energy Company Nigeria Ltd, providing strategic consultancy to leading oil and gas firms.

Later, in 2024, he became the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company, where he oversaw corporate expansion and sustainable energy solutions.

He is perfectly positioned to manage NNPC at a time when global energy policy are changing and pressure to reform Nigeria's petroleum industry is growing due to his vast expertise in both corporate and consulting roles.

As the company's new leader, Ojulari has the difficult job of leading NNPC through the post-Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) reforms in Nigeria, combating oil theft, increasing production output, and optimizing energy earnings for the country's development.

Article Posted 3 Days ago. You can post your own articles and it will be published for free. No Registration is required! But we review before publishing! Click here to get started

Love This? Share It!

One Favour Please! Subscribe To Our YouTube Channel!

468k

Cook Amazing Nigerian Dishes, Follow Adorable Kitchen YouTube Channel!

1.1m

Like us on Facebook, Follow on Twitter

React and Comment

If this violates your rights in any way, please report it here and it will be taken down within 24 hours.

Click Here To Hide More Posts Like This

Watch and Download Free Mobile Movies, Read entertainment news and reports, Download music and Upload your own For FREE. Submit Your Content to be published for you FREE! We thrive on user-submitted content! But we moderate!