NNPCL defends executives amid allegations of improper oil block awards

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has defended its Group CEO, Bayo Ojulari, and the Chief Executive of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Meyiwa Eyesan, following calls for their removal.

The Oil and Gas Professionals Forum (OGPF), led by Ayodele Momoh, demanded the dismissals of both executives, citing the underperformance of Nigeria's oil sector and controversial licensing processes. The OGPF alleged that Ojulari used insider influence to secure favorable oil blocks for associates and cronies, including one of his wives, during a recent licensing round that saw 37 blocks awarded to 31 companies.

In response, NNPCL stated that under the Petroleum Industry Act of 2021, the NUPRC holds the sole statutory mandate for conducting licensing rounds and allocating oil blocks. The company emphasized that it operates strictly as a commercial entity and holds no regulatory or allocative authority.

Regarding sector performance, NNPCL reported that crude oil production, including condensate, grew by 6% to 1.67 million barrels per day in April 2026, up from 1.60 million barrels per day in 2025. Gas production also saw a 5% increase. NNPCL noted it reserves the right to take action to protect its reputation against unsubstantiated claims.