Ogoniland: Energy development must align with community wellbeing, environmental protection –NNPCL GCEO

*Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of NNPC Limited, applauds Nigeria’s Presidential Committee on Ogoni Re-entry, emphasising that energy development must align with environmental protection and wellbeing of the citizenry

Gbenga Kayode | ConsumerConnect

Against the backdrop of their years of neglect and attendant painful history in the region, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has affirmed the Federal Government’s renewed engagement in Ogoniland, in Rivers State, South-South region.

The government assured the re-engagement of the people of the region is a demonstration of hope, and a new beginning built on partnership and understanding in the petroleum sector of the economy.

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ConsumerConnect reports Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPCL, said this Ojulari stated this Monday, December 28, 2025, while speaking during a Federal Government delegation’s visit to Ogoniland, in the South-South state.

The Group CEO of NNPCL restated the state oil company is committed to peace, dialogue, and responsible energy development in Ogoniland.

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He equally described the Federal Government’s renewed engagement in the South-South region as a demonstration of hope, and a new beginning built on partnership and understanding. ‎‎

Ojulari also asserted: “This visit is a demonstration of hope.

“It affirms the commitment of the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to peace, dialogue, and rebuilding trust.

“For NNPC Limited, it marks a new beginning—one grounded in partnership, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.”

The NNPCL Chief Executive further acknowledged the painful history of Ogoniland, emphasising that recognition of the past is essential to building a different, brighter future.

He as well lauded the Presidential Committee on Ogoni Re-entry, and for their steady leadership in building confidence and trust among Nigerians in the region.

Prof. Don Baridam led the Committee along with Malam Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser (NSA).

According to Ojulari, energy development must go hand-in-hand with environmental protection and community wellbeing.

The Group CEO explained the energy company’s mission in Ogoniland goes beyond resource extraction.

He stressed that the core mission is one that places people, livelihoods, and the environment at the centre of its operations in the region.

Ojulari asserted: “We believe wholeheartedly that energy development must go hand in hand with environmental protection and community wellbeing.”

Reaffirming the primary responsibility of NNPC Limited to host communities, the Group CEO of NNPC Limited assured the people of welfare, security and opportunity.

He averred: “I am delighted to share that one of our commitments to the people of Ogoni is becoming a reality.

“The process for the full-time employment of 30 Ogoni indigenes has reached its final stage, with employment offers already issued.”

Ojulari further noted: “We look forward with pride to welcoming them as they resume work in January 2026, marking a meaningful step toward shared progress and opportunity for our communities.”

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