Delta Youth Leader Backs New NNPCL Leadership, Urges Youth Inclusion in Oil Sector

By Idigie Lamar

Comrade Gbenga Fajoye, Delta State Chairman of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN), has congratulated the newly appointed 11-member Board and Management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), describing the appointments as a bold step toward revitalizing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

In a statement issued in Warri, Fajoye specifically extended his congratulations to the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojuolari, Chairman Ahmadu Musa Kida, and other newly appointed board members, expressing optimism that the team’s wealth of experience would usher in a new era of productivity and transparency within the NNPCL.

“We, the leadership and members of UYAN in Delta State, join well-meaning Nigerians to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his visionary decision in selecting capable professionals to steer the affairs of the NNPCL at this pivotal time,” Fajoye said.

He emphasized that the President’s appointments reflect a commitment to merit and performance, and further demonstrate an understanding of the critical role energy plays in national development.

Fajoye added that the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria is ready to collaborate with the NNPCL and Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) to ensure youth inclusion in oil sector security and infrastructure development.

“The new NNPCL leadership must carry young people along, especially those from the Niger Delta, in safeguarding oil assets and supporting local refining initiatives. We are ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure peace, security, and growth in the oil-rich communities of the Delta,” he noted.

He also echoed sentiments previously expressed by High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), affirming that youth groups and local communities are willing partners in the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in addressing oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

“As the new Board embarks on this significant journey, we urge them to operate with integrity, transparency, and a focus on inclusive development. The expectations are high, but with collective effort and youth engagement, we are confident that the goals of increasing local refining capacity and achieving 2 million barrels per day (mbpd) crude oil production can be realized,” Fajoye concluded.

He further pledged UYAN’s support in ensuring the success of the new administration’s objectives within the petroleum industry.