In a sweeping overhaul of its management, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd has announced the termination of several senior staff members, signalling a significant shift in the company’s leadership structure.
Sources confirm that among those departing are Bala Wunti, the former chief of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Ibrahim Onoja, managing director of the Kaduna Refinery, and Lawal Sade, the chief compliance officer and former managing director of NNPC Trading.
These individuals were reportedly close associates of Mele Kyari, who was removed from his position as group chief executive officer (GCEO) on April 2, 2025
Reports indicate that over 200 employees have been affected by this restructuring, indicating the potential for further changes within the organisation.
In a notable shift towards diversity, the restructuring has led to increased representation of women in senior leadership roles. Maryam Idrisu has been appointed as managing director of NNPC Trading, overseeing all crude oil transactions, while Obioma Abangwu has been named chief liaison officer for board matters.
These changes come just four weeks after Bayo Ojulari took over leadership from Kyari, suggesting a new direction for the company.
