NNPC restructures leadership, sacks top executives

In a sweeping overhaul of its executive structure, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd has dismissed several senior officials as part of a major management shake-up, following the recent removal of Mele Kyari as Group Chief Executive Officer on April 2, 2025.

Among the prominent figures affected are Bala Wunti, the former Chief of the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS); Ibrahim Onoja, the now-former Managing Director of the Kaduna Refinery; and Lawal Sade, Chief Compliance Officer and former Managing Director of NNPC Trading.

All three are reportedly close allies of Kyari, and their immediate exits are being interpreted as part of a broader effort to realign the company’s leadership under a new management philosophy.

Sources within NNPC confirmed that over 200 staff members have been affected in this first phase of restructuring, marking one of the most extensive internal reforms in the company’s recent history.

Analysts suggest that this move signals a new direction for the state-owned oil company, with additional changes anticipated in the coming months.

In a notable shift towards gender inclusivity, the restructuring has seen the elevation of several women to high-ranking roles.

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Maryam Idrisu has been appointed Managing Director of NNPC Trading, a powerful role that oversees all of Nigeria’s crude oil transactions.

Obioma Abangwu has been named Chief Liaison Officer for Board Matters, further increasing female representation at the top levels of the organization.

These appointments are seen as part of a broader agenda to promote diversity and strengthen corporate governance across the NNPC group.

The restructuring has stirred significant attention in the oil and gas industry, particularly given the strategic positions held by those relieved of their duties.

Industry watchers say the move reflects efforts by the new leadership to dismantle entrenched loyalties and inject fresh direction into the company’s operations.

The reorganization comes at a critical time for NNPC Ltd, as the company seeks to reposition itself in a volatile global energy market, improve transparency, and align more closely with international corporate governance standards.

Further details on the full scope of the changes are expected in the coming weeks, as stakeholders and industry observers continue to monitor the ripple effects of this high-level shake-up.