A coalition of 92 Civil Society Organizations, CSOs, led by the Global Centre for Conscious Living Against Corruption, has urged President Bola Tinubu to ignore calls for the removal of the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd, NNPCL, Mallam Mele Kyari, and the entire management.
Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, August 7, 2024, in Abuja, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, Director General, of the Global Centre for Conscious Living Against Corruption, said their call to the president is based on their “independent verification and fact-finding exercise” which has shown that the “NNPC Limited has undergone a significant transformation, with a relentless focus on operational efficiency and productivity that has resulted in increased crude oil production and reserve growth. These achievements have greatly contributed to Nigeria’s energy security and economic development.”
The civil society coalition noted that Kyari having gone through the rung of the oil company has worked hard to strengthen strategic partnerships with both local and international stakeholders which has fostered growth and innovation, positioning NNPC Limited as a premier energy company in Africa and earning widespread respect within the global oil and gas industry.
According to the coalition, “Mallam Kyari has demonstrated foresight and adaptability by expanding NNPC Limited’s portfolio and investments in renewable energy and gas development. These initiatives are crucial for diversifying Nigeria’s energy sector and ensuring its long-term sustainability.
“Additionally, Mallam Kyari has placed great emphasis on transparency and accountability, implementing robust corporate governance practices that promote integrity and foster trust among stakeholders. His commitment to eradicating corruption within NNPC Limited is unwavering, creating an organization that maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards corrupt practices.”
On allegations against the NNPCL boss, Nwambu stated that going by the country’s justice system, every individual is assumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of competent jurisdiction.
“We firmly believe in upholding the principles of due process, and any allegations should be diligently investigated and proven beyond all reasonable doubt. It is neither our place nor the media’s to pass judgment based on unproven allegations.
“It is important to note that Mallam Mele Kyari’s achievements and contributions to NNPC Limited and the Nigerian economy far outweigh the allegations made against him. Dismissing him would not only be counterproductive but would also hinder the remarkable progress made under his leadership. Such a decision would disrupt the sustainable economic reforms initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We, therefore, call upon President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider the greater good of Nigeria and make an informed decision regarding the leadership of NNPC Limited. By retaining Mallam Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer, we can ensure stability, growth, and sustainability within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.”