NNPC: Our recruitment process free from ethnic, religious bias — employment based on merit

• Soneye also extended an open invitation to critics to visit the corporation and witness firsthand the professionalism and dedication that characterise its operations.
• He emphasised that the focus should be on the tangible results of NNPC’s work, which contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economic development.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has refuted claims that its hiring practices and leadership appointments are swayed by ethnicity, religion, or political ties.

This response follows an article by Farooq Kperogi, which questioned the impact of ethnicity on the NNPC’s leadership structure.

Olufemi Soneye, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, firmly denied these allegations, stating that the company’s decisions are based on merit, professionalism, and business needs.

Soneye emphasized that the NNPC operates as a merit-based organization, where hiring, promotions, and appointments are solely based on qualifications, experience, and individual skills.

He assured the public that these processes are free from ethnic, religious, or political influences, reflecting the company’s commitment to efficient service delivery.

“The NNPC prides itself on being a professional organisation with a diverse leadership lineup that includes individuals from various parts of the world, not just Nigeria. The presence of qualified foreigners in the employ of the NNPC… is verifiable,” he said.

Soneye criticized Farooq Kperogi’s article, saying it unfairly targeted President Tinubu and distracted from the NNPC’s achievements under Mele Kyari’s leadership.

“Under the leadership of Mele Kyari, the NNPC has achieved remarkable milestones… These milestones were not defined, coloured, or contoured by primordial fault lines of tribe and religion.”

Soneye clarified that President Bola Tinubu’s administration has not interfered with NNPC’s operations, instead introducing policies to empower the company and foster growth.

He invited critics to visit the corporation and witness its professionalism and dedication, emphasizing the focus on tangible results that contribute to Nigeria’s economic development.

The spokesperson added that the NNPC remains committed to unity, diversity, and meritocratic principles, aiming to position Nigeria as a global energy leader.