Dangote Applauds Tinubu’s Bold Oil Sector Reforms, Backs New NNPCL Leadership to Drive Energy Revolution

President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating what he described as a revolutionary transformation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, particularly through strategic leadership appointments at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

During a recent visit to President Tinubu, Dangote lauded the choice of Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari as Group Chief Executive Officer and Mr. Ahmadu Musa Kida as Non-Executive Chairman of NNPCL, describing the duo as “formidably competent professionals” equipped with the technical and managerial expertise to reposition Nigeria’s most strategic national asset.

“I came to personally thank Mr. President for assembling such a high-calibre team. This reflects his vision to reform the energy sector and drive innovation and sustainability across the board,” Dangote stated.

He emphasized that the new leadership team is aligned with Tinubu’s broader ambition of transforming Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy. “Their track record and strategic outlook offer a fresh momentum for NNPCL, which is critical to ensuring energy security and sustainable economic growth,” he added.

Addressing weekend media reports suggesting resistance to his $20 billion Dangote Refinery, Dangote clarified that his fight is not against the current leadership of NNPCL, which he described as “very supportive.” Instead, he pointed fingers at entrenched oil cabals—marketers and traders—who are attempting to derail the administration’s economic reforms.

“These are individuals and interests that benefit from the inefficiencies of the old system. They are fighting hard to preserve the status quo. But we are determined to stand our ground,” he said.

Dangote noted that the reforms introduced by the new NNPCL management already reflect a clear shift towards transparency, efficiency, and accountability. “The quality of leadership and the deliberate reform agenda underscore a strong commitment to professionalism and results,” he affirmed.

With renewed optimism, Dangote pledged his group’s full support to the administration’s energy policies, expressing confidence that the current trajectory will elevate Nigeria’s oil and gas industry and solidify the country’s path to economic prosperity.