Why I Resigned – NNPC Spokesperson Olufemi Soneye Breaks Silence

 

Abuja, Nigeria – In a quiet but significant development, Olufemi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has officially stepped down from his position.

Soneye made the announcement on Saturday, June 21, citing the need to prioritize personal and family responsibilities. His resignation comes barely two months after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu overhauled NNPC’s top leadership by appointing Bayo Ojulari as the new Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO).

For unfiltered updates on key oil sector leadership shifts and insider reports, click here to see what’s next at NNPC — you won’t find this in mainstream headlines.

Soneye: “It’s Time to Focus on What Matters Most”

In his statement, Soneye said:

“This decision will allow me to devote more time to my family and attend to personal responsibilities that now require my closer presence.”

He expressed deep appreciation to his colleagues at NNPCL and described his 20-month tenure as “an honour and privilege.” Soneye also pledged to continue supporting the company from the sidelines and called on media professionals to remain objective and constructive in their reporting as Nigeria navigates its energy future.

Leadership Reshuffle at NNPC Under Tinubu

Soneye’s exit aligns with a broader leadership transition within Nigeria’s oil sector. On April 2, 2025, the Presidency announced sweeping changes in the NNPC hierarchy:

• Bayo Ojulari was appointed GCEO.

• Adedapo Segun was confirmed as Chief Financial Officer.

• Six non-executive directors were appointed to represent Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

The board now includes:

• Bello Rabiu (North West)

• Yusuf Usman (North East)

• Babs Omotowa (North Central)

• Austin Avuru (South-South)

• David Ige (South West)

• Henry Obih (South East)

These changes reflect Tinubu’s effort to reshape NNPC’s leadership and direction—a move met with both praise and criticism.

Kyari Retained, But Not Without Controversy

Despite the reshuffle, Mele Kyari was reappointed as NNPC boss in November 2023. His continued leadership was permitted under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, which allows a term lasting until 2027, pending presidential discretion.

However, the decision to retain Kyari has sparked debate, with critics accusing the President of ethnic favoritism in the appointments. Still, Tinubu’s administration appears determined to consolidate NNPC’s reforms and reposition the oil giant for global relevance.