By Adenike Lawal
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has celebrated the 60th birthday of Mele Kolo Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), commending his transformative leadership in the oil sector.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu lauded Kyari for steering NNPCL towards profitability and for his unwavering dedication to national service.
Reflecting on his journey from an Almajiri school pupil to leading Africa’s largest energy company, Kyari expressed gratitude to Nigeria and past administrations, particularly those of former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Tinubu.
In a social media post, he stated: “I am profoundly grateful to my country for giving me the opportunity to grow from an Almajiri (Tsangaya), school pupil to become the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company.”
Tinubu highlighted Kyari’s achievements, including the revival of two refineries and the increase in domestic gas consumption, noting that despite initial skepticism, he has boosted oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day.
Describing Kyari as a role model aligned with Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu praised his professionalism, mentorship, and efforts in expanding opportunities in the energy sector.
The President prayed for Kyari’s continued health, wisdom, and success in serving the nation and guiding the next generation of industry leaders.
