The Coalition of Citizens Groups for Good Governance has commended Bayo Ojulari, the group chief executive officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), for a series of initiatives including a 30-day petrol discount, the introduction of self-service smart pumps, and measures aimed at enhancing transparency within the company.
In a statement released on Saturday, October 10, the coalition, through its national president, Dr Nath Oguche, and Chidumga Odinkalu, expressed support for these developments, describing them as responsive to the economic realities of ordinary Nigerians.
Fuel Discount Welcomed as Relief for Households
The coalition said the fuel discount, announced by the federal government, could provide short-term relief to Nigerians struggling with high transportation costs and the broader pressures of rising fuel prices. The statement highlighted the significance of the initiative during a period of economic strain.
“The planned fuel discount is a welcome development, particularly at a time when Nigerians are grappling with high fuel prices and rising transportation costs. We commend NNPCL and its leadership under Bayo Ojulari for supporting measures that could ease some of this pressure on citizens. Initiatives that respond to the economic realities of ordinary Nigerians deserve recognition, especially when they are accompanied by efforts to improve efficiency and accountability,” the statement said.
The coalition’s praise comes amid ongoing concerns over fuel affordability across Nigeria, with the discount seen as a potential buffer for households and transport operators alike.
Coalition Highlights Wider Reforms Under Ojulari
Beyond the discount, the group drew attention to what it described as a broader reform agenda at NNPCL under Ojulari’s leadership, covering operational efficiency, anti-corruption efforts, and improved service delivery. The coalition noted that these innovations could have far-reaching implications for the national economy.
“Beyond the fuel discount, we are encouraged by the innovations being introduced under Ojulari's leadership, including self-service smart pumps and efforts to strengthen transparency in the company's operations. These developments indicate what a seasoned administrator can achieve when experience, innovation and a commitment to public service guide decision-making. NNPCL is a strategic national institution, and improvements in its operations have implications for the wider economy and the daily lives of Nigerians,” the coalition said.
The group argued that public institutions should be judged not merely on policies and announcements, but on the concrete improvements they deliver to citizens. It said reforms targeting corruption and improving access to services could help restore public trust in NNPCL, which occupies a central role in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.
Call for Sustained Momentum and Transparency
“Good governance requires more than managing an institution's routine affairs. It demands the courage to confront longstanding problems, introduce better ways of working and ensure that the public receives value from the resources entrusted to the institution. We believe that the steps being taken at NNPCL deserve attention, and we urge the management to sustain the momentum while ensuring that the benefits reach Nigerians across the country,” the statement added.
The coalition called on NNPCL to be open about how its initiatives are being implemented and to keep consumers informed. It also urged other public institutions to adopt practical innovations that improve accountability and service delivery.
Earlier reports noted that motorists can purchase petrol at lower prices at NNPC Limited filling stations nationwide by taking advantage of a temporary N66-per-litre discount announced by the federal government. The initiative, which runs throughout October, offers customers a way to reduce fuel expenses amid elevated petrol prices across the country.
