Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has strongly defended the integrity of the company’s personnel amid ongoing controversies surrounding its operations.
Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday before a Senate Ad-hoc Committee led by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Kyari addressed allegations of economic sabotage within the petroleum industry. He emphasized that NNPCL officials are committed to the nation’s welfare and have no involvement in the importation of substandard petroleum products.
“We are not criminals and we are not thieves. We will protect our dignity so we can serve this country,” Kyari stated emphatically.
Kyari highlighted the challenges facing the oil and gas sector, noting that it is “bleeding” and that there are issues he is aware of but cannot discuss publicly until the appropriate time. He also expressed frustration over what he described as undue media attacks aimed at tarnishing the company’s reputation.
“The company is faithful and will not lie to the country,” Kyari affirmed.
To ensure transparency, Kyari requested that future committee sessions be televised live so that all Nigerians can follow the proceedings.
