Ojulari Named 2026 CEO of the Year for NNPCL Reforms

Bashir Bayo Ojulari has been recognized as the 2026 Leadership Newspapers CEO of the Year (Public Sector) due to his impactful leadership at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). This recognition coincides with NNPCL's notable financial performance, reporting N19.04 trillion in revenue and N2.28 trillion in profit after tax in the first half of 2026.

Additionally, the company remitted N7.913 trillion in statutory payments to the Federation Account, including N1.627 trillion in July. Ojulari took over NNPCL during a challenging period marked by production issues and investor uncertainty.

His extensive background in the oil and gas sector, including experience at Shell, has been pivotal in transforming NNPCL into a more competitive and commercially focused entity. Under his leadership, NNPCL has improved performance reporting, ensured regular remittances, and enhanced transparency.

Ojulari's strategy includes protecting existing production and attracting new investments, indicating a significant shift in the company's operational approach.