BREAKING: Major Restructuring in NNPC as New MD Bayo Ojulari Sacks Bala Wunti, 200 Others

Bayo Ojulari, the newly appointed Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), has removed over 200 staff members, including high-ranking executives.

POLITICS NIGERIA reports that this is Mr. Ojulari’s first major decision since taking over the helm of the state-run oil company on April 4.

Among those affected are Bala Wunti, former head of NAPIMS, Lawal Sade, the chief compliance officer, and Ibrahim Onoja, managing director of the Port Harcourt Refinery.

Insiders say the restructuring is aimed at transforming the company’s leadership and promoting diversity. “Over 200 employees have just been asked to go,” a top official said. “This restructuring will enhance female representation in leadership positions.”

Sources say the move has been welcomed by many within the organisation who believe it will create more opportunities for women and underrepresented groups.

As part of the leadership changes, Maryamu Idris has been appointed managing director of trading, replacing Lawal Sade. She will now oversee crude oil transactions. In another key appointment, Obioma Abangwu becomes the chief liaison officer to NNPC’s management board.

Meanwhile, the company’s corporate communications office has not yet issued an official statement on the changes.

Mr Ojulari was appointed by President Bola Tinubu to replace Mele Kyari, who served as NNPC’s head from 2019 to 2025.