BY JULIET EKWENUGO
Kaduna
The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has commended the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kolo Kyari, describing his tenure as one defined by reforms, transparency and social impact in the oil and gas sector.
The group said Kyari, who led the company from 2019 to 2025, played a key role in repositioning the national oil company and improving public confidence in its operations.
In a statement signed by its president, Ambassador Abdul Danbature, AYAGL said one of the major highlights of Kyari’s leadership was the introduction of the Transparency, Accountability and Performance (TAPE) framework, which it said strengthened governance and operational standards within the organisation.
The group also noted that the consistent publication of audited financial statements during his tenure marked a departure from what it described as years of opacity in the petroleum sector.
According to the group, the transformation of NNPCL into a commercially driven entity in line with the Petroleum Industry Act was another significant milestone under Kyari’s leadership.
AYAGL added that improvements in digitisation and internal processes enhanced efficiency and accountability.
On fuel supply and pricing, AYAGL said Kyari demonstrated what it called “strategic leadership” during Nigeria’s transition to deregulation, adding that his management helped maintain relative stability in petroleum supply despite global shocks, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
The statement further highlighted progress recorded in refinery rehabilitation projects in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna, as well as advancements in the Ajaokuta–Kaduna–Kano Gas Pipeline Project.
It added that strengthened pipeline surveillance efforts contributed to reducing crude oil theft and associated losses.
AYAGL also praised the “Decade of Gas” initiative, saying it laid a foundation for cleaner energy transition, industrial development and improved Nigeria’s standing in global energy discussions.
Beyond policy reforms, the group said Kyari’s tenure also recorded notable humanitarian and community development interventions.
The group listed healthcare support, educational programmes, water projects, school rehabilitation and rural electrification as part of NNPCL’s social investments during the period.
The group further commended initiatives targeted at internally displaced persons in the North-East, as well as youth empowerment and mentorship programmes within the oil and gas industry.
“Many of his philanthropic interventions were carried out quietly, reflecting humility and a genuine commitment to human development”.
AYAGL also noted that energy supply stability during election periods was maintained under Kyari’s leadership, adding that institutional neutrality of the company contributed to national stability and democratic continuity.
