A diaspora group, Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora, NPID, has condemned attacks and calls for the sack of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engr Mele Kyari.

The NPID made their stand known during a press conference held in London, the capital of the United Kingdom, UK, on the heels of the recent criticism and allegations against Kyari.

Speaking on behalf of the group, the NPID spokesperson, Dr. Segun Adeyemi, emphasized and maintained that the group has given its unwavering support for Kyari’s stewardship of the NNPCL, and will stand with him to continue the great job he doing to reposition the oil and gas sector.

Adeyemi described the criticisms as unfounded and lacked substantive evidence.

The attendance during the press conference had a wide range of stakeholders, including industry leaders, members of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK, and representatives from the media.

They also unanimously agreed to ensure the real facts and right information gets to the public on the ongoing discussions surrounding the NNPCL’s leadership and performance.

The Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora (NPID) is made up of prominent Nigerian professionals residing in the diaspora.

Adeyemi said: “We have carefully examined the allegations and concerns raised against Mallam Kyari, and we firmly believe that these criticisms are not only unfair but also fail to recognize the significant progress and achievements made under his leadership.

“The NNPCL, under Mallam Kyari’s guidance, has made tremendous strides in areas such as operational efficiency, financial performance, and the implementation of key industry reforms. These achievements have had a tangible and positive impact on the Nigerian economy and the lives of our fellow citizens, both at home and in the diaspora.

“As Nigerian professionals living and working outside of our homeland, we have been closely following the recent discourse surrounding the leadership of the NNPCL, and we feel it is our responsibility to contribute to this important discussion.

“We have carefully examined the achievements and contributions of Mallam Mele Kyari during his tenure as the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL, and we are proud to say that he has demonstrated exceptional leadership, vision, and commitment to the transformation of the Nigerian oil and gas sector.

“Under Mallam Kyari’s stewardship, the NNPCL has undergone a remarkable transformation, transitioning from a largely opaque and bureaucratic institution to a more streamlined, transparent, and commercially-oriented entity.

“This has allowed the company to become more responsive to the needs of the Nigerian people and the broader industry, both within the country and on the global stage.

“We, the Nigerian Professionals in Diaspora, unequivocally pass a vote of confidence in Mallam Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL.

“We believe that he is the right person to lead the company through the current challenges and into a prosperous future for the benefit of all Nigerians, both at home and abroad.”

Meanwhile, he added that the NNPCL demands a man of experience and deep expertise, “The oil and gas industry is a strategic sector for the Nigerian economy, and it requires steady and capable leadership to navigate the complexities and uncertainties that lie ahead.

“Mallam Kyari has demonstrated his ability to steer the NNPCL in the right direction, and we believe that his continued leadership is crucial for the company’s long-term success and the overall development of the Nigerian oil and gas industry, both within the country and on the international stage.

“We urge all Nigerians, from industry leaders to policymakers and the general public, to rally behind Mallam Mele Kyari and the NNPCL as they work to fulfil their mandate and contribute to the sustainable growth and prosperity of our nation.”