NNPCL Chief Pledges Continued Oil Exploration In North And Completion Of AKK Project.
Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has reaffirmed the company’s commitment to oil exploration in northern Nigeria while vowing to see the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project through to completion. Speaking in an interview with BBC Hausa, Ojulari, who described himself as a “Northern boy” born and raised in Kaduna, called for unity and support to drive development across the region and the nation.
Ojulari, who studied in Zaria and began learning Yoruba at age 15, urged northern communities to back his efforts, emphasising that his role requires collective support. “This is not a job one person can do alone,” he said, appealing for prayers and collaboration to advance Nigeria’s progress. He also addressed past tensions, assuring the public that disputes between NNPCL and Dangote, often splashed across newspapers, would cease.
The NNPCL boss underscored the importance of the AKK project, a critical infrastructure initiative aimed at boosting gas supply and industrial growth in the north. His pledge to continue oil drilling in the region signals a sustained focus on harnessing northern Nigeria’s energy potential, which he believes will spur economic development for the country.
Ojulari’s remarks have been met with optimism, with many hoping his leadership will foster unity and deliver tangible progress. As Nigeria navigates its energy future, the NNPCL chief’s call for collective action resonates as a rallying cry for national development.

