The Movement for the Survival of the Izon Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta MOSIEND, has congratulated the newly appointed Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) board members, led by Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) and Ahmadu Musa Kida as Non-Executive Chairman.
MOSIEND also outlined their expectations from the new board as regards addressing crucial challenges bedevilling the region and its people.
The Niger Delta group also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what they described as his strategic foresight in appointing accomplished professionals to lead NNPCL.
MOSIEND National President, Mr Kennedy Tonjo-West, who spoke on behalf of the group, noted that “the distinguished careers and proven track records of the new GCEO and board chairman position them to implement transformative reforms, repositioning NNPCL as a globally competitive oil company.
“As this new leadership takes office, we emphasize the urgency of addressing critical industry challenges, including fuel scarcity, pricing irregularities, oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and the non-implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA)’s community content provisions.”
On their expectations, West urged “the GCEO to prioritize the replacement of aging pipelines across the Niger Delta creeks, a key step in reducing vandalism and oil theft.
“Additionally, strengthening collaboration with the national security Adviser and chief of defence staff will be crucial in enhancing security and boosting oil production.”
MOSIEND further called on the board to “revive NNPCL’s floating fuel stations to ensure riverine communities have uninterrupted access to petroleum products. Create sustainable job opportunities for Niger Delta youths, reducing dependency on illicit activities.”
Also Read: Rivers Diaspora Students Seek Tinubu’s Intervention Over Oando’s Alleged Neglect of Omoku Community
The pan Niger Delta group further expectations is that the board should “revisit the Brass Petroleum Product Terminal (BPPT) project and explore a similar initiative in the Cawthorne Channel axis of Rivers State to curb illegal refining and drive economic development.
“Encourage International Oil Companies (IOCs) to relocate their headquarters to the Niger Delta, fostering local economic growth and improved stakeholder relations.
“We expect the new board to uphold transparency, fairness, and corporate social responsibility, avoiding past divide-and-conquer strategies that have marginalized host communities. This leadership team has an opportunity to redefine industry standards by prioritizing best practices and honoring commitments to stakeholders.”
The group also revealed that “the challenges ahead are significant, but we have full confidence in this team’s capacity to drive meaningful progress. MOSIEND stands ready to support this board through strategic collaboration, professional guidance, and moral backing as they embark on this crucial national assignment.
“Once again, we congratulate the newly appointed NNPCL board members and wish them success in their tenure.”
