As Malam Mele Kyari marks his 59th birthday today, He has received a new moniker from Nigeria’s current president, Bola Tinubu as “A man of action”.
He is one of the few technocrats retained by President Bola Tinubu from the President Muhammadu Buhari administration.
While Mele Kyari celebrates, it is evident that his leadership transcends conventional boundaries. A man of action, as attested to by President Tinubu, Kyari’s legacy is defined by tangible results, forward-thinking strategies, and a steadfast commitment to the betterment of the energy sector.
Tinubu felicitates NNPCL boss, Kyari, says “he’s a man of action”
As the NNPCL continues to navigate the complexities of a changing world, Mele Kyari’s vision and determination will undoubtedly remain tested at the forefront, guiding the corporation towards new horizons and solidifying his status as a true trailblazer in the global energy landscape.
BRANDPOWER looks at Mele Kyari’s professional journey to torchlight the significant footprints that have earned him such a powerful effusion of praise from the president.
Background
Mele Kolo Kyari OFR, was born 8 January 1965. He is a Nigerian thoroughbred geologist, crude oil marketer and the first Group Chief executive officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum company limited (NNPC Limited).
Before this appointment, Kyari was the Group General Manager, Crude Oil Marketing Division of the NNPC and the Nigerian National Representative at the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) since 2018.
With over three decades of service in the NNPC, Kyari is considered a perfect fit for the job of Group CEO as he is well-rounded and well-grounded in the operations of the NNPCL. The gains are some of the stellar results proclaimed by industry operators and critics who agree that NNPC is being pulled out from the doldrums after many years of stagnation, especially the soon-to-be-relaunched Port-Harcourt, Warri and Kaduna Refineries that have remained comatose for ages.
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Adisa Aliu, the CEO of Matrix Energy attributes the success of his local firm to the ingenuity and support of Mele Kyari. This is the testimony of many others in the fledgling Nigerian Oil and Gas industry.
Track Record
It has been about 4 and a half years since Mele Kyari assumed the position of Group CEO of NNPC which has since transformed into NNPCL. Industry watchers believe he has left an indelible mark on the NNPCL and the broader energy industry.
With over 32 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, his tour of duty traversed the entire value chain of the petroleum industry.
“Under his watch, the Crude Oil Marketing Division of the NNPC has recorded noticeable transformation in the management and sales of the various Nigeria’s crude oil grades via an infusion of transparency and automation of the processes,” the NNPC said of him in his official profile on its website.
His tenure has shown a commitment to transparency, efficiency, and innovation. Under his guidance, the NNPCL has undergone a profound transformation, positioning itself as a dynamic and forward-thinking player in the global energy landscape working within the limits of direct political guidance of the president who sits as the petroleum minister.
Visionary Leadership in a Changing World
Mele Kyari’s leadership style is defined by a clear and compelling vision for the future. Recognizing the challenges of a rapidly evolving energy market, he has spearheaded initiatives that emphasize sustainability, diversification, and technological advancement. His strategic foresight has not only shielded the NNPCL from volatility but has also positioned the corporation as a key player in the transition towards cleaner energy sources.
Driving Efficiency and Transparency
One of Kyari’s notable achievements has been his commitment to transparency and accountability. Recognizing the importance of public trust, he implemented measures to enhance governance, streamline operations, and eradicate corruption within the NNPCL. His dedication to openness has not only restored faith in the organization but has also set a benchmark for ethical leadership in the energy sector.
Transformative Impact on the Nigerian Energy Sector
Mele Kyari’s influence extends beyond the confines of the NNPCL. Through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives, he has played a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s energy landscape. From fostering domestic refining capacity to advancing renewable energy projects, Kyari has demonstrated a keen understanding of the multifaceted challenges facing the nation and has actively worked towards sustainable solutions.
A Global Perspective
Under Kyari’s stewardship, the NNPCL has expanded its global footprint, establishing itself as a key player in the international energy arena. His commitment to forging strategic alliances and embracing cutting-edge technologies has not only enhanced the corporation’s competitiveness but has also positioned Nigeria as a formidable force in the global energy conversation.
Some significant milestones:
Financial Performance: Under Kyari’s leadership, NNPC Limited declared a net profit in 2020, and by fiscal 2021, the corporation’s profit grew to N674 billion
Repositioning NNPC: Kyari has been instrumental in repositioning NNPC, with the company becoming involved in the entire value chain of the oil and gas business and controlling the largest share of the country’s hydrocarbon reserves
Refinery Rehabilitation: He has worked towards guaranteeing energy security, reducing carbon emissions, and getting the refineries back on stream, contributing to the modernization and expansion of NNPC’s operations
Stewardship and Leadership: Kyari’s proactive and visionary approach has been widely recognized, with President Bola Tinubu commending his diligence, passion, and expertise, and describing him as a “man of action, rather than words”
Flagging off of Projects: One of the most impressive accomplishments of Kyari’s stewardship was the flagging off of the Kolmani River-II Well, which has contributed to the repositioning of Nigeria’s oil industry
Security and Oil-Theft: The NNPCL under Kyari’s stewardship has invested hugely in security assets that monitor oil and gas pipelines and assets. This has enabled security forces and contractors to monitor, in real time, the sctivities of oil thieves and saboteurs which has contributed to the significant reduction of oil theft in recent times.
These achievements underscore Mele Kyari’s significant contributions to the Nigerian petroleum industry and his commitment to driving the success and growth of NNPC Limited.
As Mele Kyari luxuriates in the showers of goodwill and kind words as he celebrates his 59th birthday, Nigerians pray that by the time he hits 3 scores next year, he will have hit more than just a ‘Bull’s eye’ in his illustrious career and delivered on his mandate excellently.
