In a sharply worded critique titled “NNPCL in Kigali: Same Waste, Different Name,” energy analyst Idris Olanrewaju has raised serious concerns over the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) recent executive retreat in Kigali, Rwanda. The article, published in The Guardian Nigeria, questions the rationale behind such lavish expenditures at a time when Nigerians are grappling with economic hardship.
Under the leadership of CEO Bayo Ojulari, expectations were high for a new era of transparency and reform. However, Olanrewaju argues that the Kigali retreat mirrors past excesses, echoing similar trips under previous leadership. “Different name, different leader, same culture of excess,” he writes, pointing to a persistent pattern of tone-deaf decision-making and lack of accountability.
The piece also highlights internal struggles within NNPCL, including the recent resignation of the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, reportedly due to frustrations over leadership inertia and entrenched interests. Olanrewaju warns that unless bold steps are taken, the company risks perpetuating a cycle of recycled leadership and squandered public trust.