In a sweeping overhaul of its top leadership, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd has dismissed several senior officials in what is seen as a major restructuring move following the recent removal of Mele Kyari as group chief executive officer.
Among the high-profile exits are Bala Wunti, the former chief of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Ibrahim Onoja, the managing director of the Kaduna Refinery, and Lawal Sade, NNPC’s chief compliance officer and former head of NNPC Trading.
These individuals were all regarded as close associates of Kyari, who was removed from his post on April 2, 2025.
Over 200 affected, women take leading roles
According to sources within the company, the restructuring has affected over 200 employees and marks what may be the first phase of broader personnel changes.
Notably, the shakeup has paved the way for greater gender diversity in senior roles.
Maryam Idrisu has been appointed the new managing director of NNPC Trading, the division in charge of all crude oil transactions.
In another key appointment, Obioma Abangwu has been named the chief liaison officer responsible for board-related matters.
These new additions reflect a shift in NNPC’s leadership direction and a clear intent to increase inclusion at the top.
Staff welcome changes as transition unfolds
The recent developments have been met with general approval within the organization, according to reports.
Despite the large number of dismissals, staff members reportedly view the restructuring as a necessary step toward reform and a new chapter for the company’s operations.
This latest action by the NNPC management underscores the broader transformation efforts taking place within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, as the company seeks to realign itself following a change in leadership at the top.
