By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has officially deployed over 1,000 young professionals into its workforce after they completed a one-year internship, intensive training, and performance evaluation programme. Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, announced the milestone on Friday through the company’s social media platforms, explaining that the deployment reflects NNPC’s commitment to merit-based recruitment, workforce development, and capacity building under the Petroleum Industry Act.
Ojulari Commends Merit-Based Recruitment
Ojulari described the deployment as a significant achievement for the national energy company. He explained that every employee earned their position through dedication, hard work, and consistent performance.
According to him, the recruitment process focused on talent and competence instead of personal connections or background.
“Different paths, but the same door. And we opened it. That’s what NNPC Limited stands for today: not who you know or where you’re from, but what you can do,” he said.
He added that offer letters only created the opportunity, while the interns’ outstanding performance throughout the year secured their permanent deployment.
“Their offer letters got them in, but their work this past year kept them here. They proved themselves day after day, under real pressure, and that’s the standard we’re building. Talent. Hard work. Fairness.”
NNPC Boss Challenges Employees to Lead
Ojulari encouraged the newly deployed professionals to become active contributors within the organisation. He urged them to share innovative ideas, challenge existing practices, and take ownership of their career development.
He reminded them to appreciate the recruitment journey and support future generations of professionals.
“To the over 1,000 newly deployed: you are not just our future. You are our present. Our energy. Our proof. So don’t hesitate to lend your voice, share your opinions, and challenge the status quo. Own your development.”
He further advised them never to forget the opportunities they received.
“Don’t forget the wait. Don’t forget the process. Because one day, when you’re sitting where I am, you’ll remember this moment, and you’ll open that same door for someone else.”
Deployment Supports NNPC’s Transformation
The deployment aligns with NNPC Ltd’s ongoing transformation into a commercially driven national energy company following the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act.
Furthermore, the initiative strengthens the company’s workforce and enhances operational capacity across its business segments.
NNPC initially announced the recruitment exercise in July 2024 during the tenure of former Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari. After completing internships, intensive training, and rigorous performance assessments, the successful candidates secured permanent positions within the organization.
