In a recent call to action, President Bola Tinubu has been urged to undertake a comprehensive restructuring of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL). Deji Adeyanju, a prominent socio-political activist, highlighted the urgent need to address the corruption and incompetence that has plagued the NNPCL, arguing that the responsibility for this dire situation lies with former President Muhammadu Buhari.
In a tweet addressing the issue, Adeyanju expressed concern that the NNPCL’s top 20 executives give the impression that Nigeria is in disarray. He also raised questions about the lack of diversity within the organization, citing the fact that all 20 executives are Muslim. This imbalanced representation, according to Adeyanju, undermines Nigeria’s commitment to inclusivity and equality.
Adeyanju’s tweet read, “The NNPC or Northern Nigeria Petroleum Company? The all-Muslim top 20 executives in NNPC make Nigeria look like a joke. President Tinubu must restructure the rotten & bigoted NNPC of Buhari.”
In an attempt to shed light on the extent of the issue, Adeyanju listed the names of the 20 executives, drawing attention to the lack of representation for the southern regions of Nigeria. This list includes individuals such as Mele Kyari (GMD), Umar Ajiya (Chief Finance Officer/Finance and Accounts), and Hadiza Coomassie (Corporate Secretary/Legal Adviser to the Corporation).
He emphasized, “Only three top positions were allotted to the entire Southern Nigeria.”
The call for restructuring the NNPCL highlights the need for reform and accountability within the organization. As Nigeria’s primary oil corporation, it plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy. Therefore, it is imperative that the organization is transparent, efficient, and inclusive in its operations.
President Bola Tinubu, known for his leadership and reform-oriented approach, must carefully evaluate the situation and take the necessary steps to address the rot that has permeated the NNPCL. By implementing comprehensive reforms, he can restore integrity, diversity, and competence to the organization, ensuring it lives up to its mandate and serves the best interests of all Nigerians.
