Oil & Gas
THE Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has commended the past Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, describing his tenure as a defining period marked by reforms, transparency and humanitarian impact.
This is contained in a statement issued by the President of AYAGL, Abdul Danbature, on Friday in Kaduna.
The group said Kyari’s leadership from 2019 to 2025 repositioned the national oil company and restored public confidence in the petroleum sector.
It noted that Kyari introduced the Transparency, Accountability and Performance (TAPE) agenda, which it said transformed operational standards within NNPCL.
According to the group, the consistent publication of audited financial statements under his leadership marked a significant departure from decades of opacity in the sector.
AYAGL also credited Kyari with driving the commercialisation of NNPCL in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, as well as improving operational efficiency through digitalisation and strengthened governance structures.
On fuel pricing, the group said Kyari demonstrated strategic leadership during Nigeria’s transition to deregulation, noting that his approach helped maintain relative stability in fuel supply and pricing despite global market volatility, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The statement further acknowledged investments in critical infrastructure under his leadership, including the rehabilitation of refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna, as well as progress on the Ajaokuta, Kaduna, Kano Gas Pipeline Project.
It added that enhanced pipeline surveillance contributed to efforts to curb crude oil theft.
AYAGL said Kyari’s “Decade of Gas” initiative laid a foundation for cleaner energy development and industrial growth, while strengthening Nigeria’s position in global energy diplomacy.
Beyond policy and infrastructure, the group emphasised Kyari’s humanitarian contributions, citing expanded healthcare interventions, educational support programmes and community development projects, including water supply, school rehabilitation and rural electrification.
It also noted his support for internally displaced persons in the North East and his commitment to youth empowerment and mentorship within the oil and gas industry.
“Many of his personal philanthropic efforts were carried out quietly, reflecting humility and a genuine desire to impact lives,” the statement said.
The group further commended Kyari for ensuring energy supply stability during election periods and maintaining institutional neutrality, which it said contributed to national stability and democratic continuity.
AYAGL urged future leaders to emulate his commitment to integrity, service and inclusive development.(NAN)
A.I
April 24, 2026
Tags: Abdul Danbature AYAGL Mele Kyari