Lagos — The Society of Energy Editors, SEE, has commended the appointment of Engr. Bayo Ojulari as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL.

The SEE (www.energyeditors.org) is an association of media professionals working to elevate the quality of energy journalism, contribute to a more informed public discourse, and support the growth and development of the energy industry. Its membership is drawn from within and outside Nigeria.

In a congratulatory message to the NNPCL new helmsman, signed by its Chairman, Mr. Yakubu Lawal, the Society said it received news of the appointment with renewed hope for the future of the Nigerian oil and gas industry as his expertise and leadership weigh well for a national institution continuing its transition to a full-fledged commercial entity.

It said the NNPCL, which has grown to become the premier oil producer in Africa, is the heartbeat of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria and a successful transition as envisioned by the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, will set the pace for the overall contributions of the sector to the economic development of the country.

The SEE expressed recognition for Engr. Ojulari’s vast knowledge and experience of the industry gained both within and outside Nigeria and urged him to deploy same into the making of the new NNPCL, and in the process, nurture a productive partnership with all stakeholders, especially the international oil companies, IOCs, and independents, communities, regulatory agencies and the media.

“We received news of your appointment with renewed hope for the future of the industry as your expertise and leadership weigh well for a national institution continuing its transition to a full-fledged commercial entity. The NNPCL which has grown to become the premier oil producer in Africa, is the heartbeat of the oil and gas industry in Nigeria and a successful transition as envisioned by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) will set the pace for the overall contributions of the sector to the economic development of the country.

“The SEE recognises your vast knowledge and experience of the industry gained both within and outside Nigeria and urges you to deploy same into the making of the new NNPCL, and in the process nurture a productive partnership with all stakeholders, especially IOCs and independents, communities, regulatory agencies and the media,” the statement read.

The Society pledged to support the NNPC CEO as required in the achievement of his plans and programmes.

The SEE was launched in May 2024 to promote excellence in energy journalism and strengthen the gatekeeping function of the media in the energy sector.

The Society’s establishment was a response to the need for in-depth knowledge and nuanced reporting in the energy industry, which has been lacking in recent times. With the increasing complexity of energy issues, it is imperative that media professionals covering the sector have a deep understanding of its operations, government policies, and regulatory frameworks.

Membership is drawn from journalists, editors, producers, and media professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to accurate and impactful reporting on energy issues.

The Society publishes a quarterly ‘Nigeria Energy Outlook’, which provides advisory and clarifications on energy-related matters. It offers training and retraining programmes for energy reporters and media executives to enhance the depth and quality of media coverage.