Kyari: Diaspora Group Urges Tinubu to Protect Reformers

The Nigeria Professionals in Diaspora (NPID) has called on President Bola Tinubu to support and protect Nigerians who have contributed significantly to the nation’s development. Speaking in a statement, NPID President, Dr. Olawale Oguntonade, described former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, as a reformer who […]

The Nigeria Professionals in Diaspora (NPID) has called on President Bola Tinubu to support and protect Nigerians who have contributed significantly to the nation’s development.

Speaking in a statement, NPID President, Dr. Olawale Oguntonade, described former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, as a reformer who oversaw key transformations in the oil and gas sector.

The group highlighted President Tinubu’s past commendations of Kyari’s leadership, noting his remarks during the signing of a $7 billion gas deal in August 2023, and again in October 2023, when NNPCL recorded profits for the first time in over four decades.

According to the group, Kyari’s tenure was marked by major achievements, including:

Financial turnaround: Profits of ₦287 billion in 2020, ₦674 billion in 2021, and ₦3.3 trillion in 2023.

Transparency reforms: Launch of the TAPE Initiative and publication of audited financial statements.

Infrastructure projects: AKK Gas Pipeline, Kolmani Integrated Oil & Gas Development, and the Nigeria-Morocco Gas Pipeline.

Investor confidence: Settlement of disputes with international oil companies, paving the way for projects such as the $10 billion Bonga South-East venture.

Product availability: The “Operation White” initiative to curb smuggling and ensure steady supply of petroleum products.

The group urged President Tinubu to continue creating an enabling environment for reform-minded leaders to thrive, stressing that their contributions are vital for Nigeria’s growth.

NPID also announced plans to honour Kyari at an event in the United Kingdom in November 2025, which is expected to attract dignitaries from Nigeria and abroad.

According to the group, celebrating reformers who have delivered concrete results will encourage more Nigerians in the diaspora to return home and contribute to national development.