Doyin Okupe apologizes to Mele Kyari

I write today with a deep sense of humility and genuine admiration for the remarkable achievements of Mr. Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), as he marks his 60th birthday.
It is no secret that I, along with many others, was once a vocal critic of NNPCL and its leadership. In fact, like my former boss, President Olusegun Obasanjo, I shared the belief that nothing positive could come from the NNPCL, and I openly expressed skepticism over its ability to deliver on its promises. I was, at that time, dismissive of the leadership of Mr. Mele Kyari, and I even laughed at the very idea of NNPCL’s creation.
However, the remarkable and multi-dimensional achievements of Mr. Kyari and his management team have truly reshaped my perspective. Over the past few years, I have watched with astonishment as NNPCL has made tangible strides in transforming Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. The revival of our refineries, the revitalization of critical infrastructure, and the efforts to tackle the petroleum industry’s long-standing issues have defied all expectations.
Particularly commendable is the significant downward trend in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at the pumps, which is a direct result of NNPCL’s strategic initiatives and commitment to improving the petroleum sector for the benefit of the Nigerian people. This development is already easing some of the economic burdens Nigerians have been grappling with, and it deserves widespread commendation.
On this occasion of Mr. Mele Kyari’s 60th birthday, I seize the opportunity to offer my heartfelt congratulations. Your dedication, leadership, and achievements have not only earned the respect of your peers, but have also turned former critics like myself into proud supporters of the work you continue to do.
I pray that the Almighty God blesses you with continued wisdom, strength, and success as you press forward in your mission to ensure a more prosperous future for Nigeria. May your efforts continue to help alleviate the hardships of Nigerians, particularly by further reducing the cost of PMS, and may you be richly rewarded for your service to the nation.
Congratulations once again, Mr. Mele Kyari.
Dr. Doyin Okupe
Former Presidential Spokesman