Lagos —

The Society of Energy Editors, SEE, has commended the appointment of Engr. Bayo Ojulari as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL.

The SEE (www.energyeditors.org) is an organization of media experts dedicated to enhancing the standards of energy reporting, fostering better-informed public discussions, and supporting the advancement of the energy sector. Members come from both inside and outside Nigeria.

In a congratulatory message to the NNPCL new helmsman, signed by its Chairman, Mr. Yakubu Lawal, the Society said it received news of the appointment with renewed hope for the future of the Nigerian oil and gas industry as his expertise and leadership weigh well for a national institution continuing its transition to a full-fledged commercial entity.

The statement noted that the NNPCL, having evolved into the leading oil producer in Africa, serves as the lifeblood of the petroleum sector in Nigeria. A smooth transition, as outlined by the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), would establish the benchmark for the broader impact of this industry on Nigeria’s economic growth.

The SEE acknowledged Engineer Ojulari’s extensive expertise and experience in the sector acquired domestically and internationally, and encouraged him to apply this knowledge toward shaping the emerging NNPCL. In doing so, he was advised to foster a fruitful collaboration among various parties including international oil companies (IOCs), independent operators, local communities, oversight bodies, and the press.

We have received word of your appointment with fresh optimism regarding the industry’s future, knowing that your skills and guidance will be beneficial to a national organization undergoing transformation into a fully operational commercial entity. As the NNPCL, now the leading petroleum producer in Africa, serves as the lifeblood of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, successfully transitioning according to the vision laid out in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) will establish the benchmark for how this field can contribute significantly to the nation’s economic growth.

“The SEE acknowledges your extensive expertise and insights from the sector acquired both domestically and internationally in Nigeria, and encourages you to apply this towards shaping the new NNPCL. In doing so, foster a fruitful collaboration with various parties involved, particularly international oil companies (IOCs), independent operators, local communities, oversight bodies, and the press,” the statement said.

The organization committed to backing the NNPC CEO as needed for the fulfillment of his objectives and initiatives.

Launched in May 2024, the SEE initiative aims to boost quality journalism in the field of energy and reinforce the role of media as guardians in this industry.

The founding of The Society came as an answer to the necessity for thorough insight and sophisticated coverage within the energy sector, where such depth has often been missing recently. As energy challenges grow more intricate, it becomes crucial for journalists working this beat to possess extensive knowledge about how the industry functions, along with insights into pertinent governmental regulations and policies.

Members are selected from journalists, editors, producers, and media experts who have shown dedication to delivering precise and influential coverage of energy-related topics.

The organization releases a quarterly publication titled ‘Nigeria Energy Outlook,’ offering guidance and explanations on issues related to energy. Additionally, they provide training and refresher courses for energy journalists and media professionals aimed at improving the caliber and thoroughness of media reporting in this field.