Breaking: Group Hails Kyari’s Era as Turning Point for Nigeria’s Oil Sector
In a strong show of support, the Oil Industry Transparency Solidarity League (OLTRASOL) has voiced its satisfaction with the sweeping reforms initiated by Malam Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC).
The group described Kyari’s tenure as “transformational and courageous,” emphasizing that his legacy should not be overshadowed by current probes or political shifts. The group called Kyari’s leadership “a rare blend of courage, vision, and integrity,” urging Nigerians not to forget the strides made under his watch.
OLTRASOL highlighted several landmark achievements under Kyari’s leadership: dismantling entrenched subsidy cartels and saving Nigeria billions; spearheading oil exploration in previously untapped regions; positioning Nigeria as a strategic energy supplier to Europe through the AKK and Moroccan-Algerian gas pipelines; transforming the NNPC under the Petroleum Industry Act into a commercially driven entity; introducing transparent recruitment practices; ending perennial fuel queues through improved logistics; and boosting oil production through strategic investments.
While acknowledging that Kyari did not succeed in completely reviving Nigeria’s refineries—now under investigation—OLTRASOL urged the public and policymakers to adopt a balanced view. “Leadership is not about perfection; it’s about progress,” the group stated.
“Kyari made tough decisions in a tough environment. His efforts deserve recognition, not revisionism”, OLTRASOL stressed.
The group warned against the tendency to vilify public servants post-tenure, especially those who dared to challenge entrenched interests. “We must not allow political winds to erase the strides made. Mele Kyari’s reforms laid the groundwork for a more transparent and accountable oil sector.”
Referencing a recent post by Senator Shehu Sani, OLTRASOL echoed the sentiment that Kyari’s legacy should be preserved. “Mele Kyari was never a perfect man, but he did a number of good things that shouldn’t be easily forgotten,” Sani wrote. “He also did something good that is worthy of being appreciated.”
As Nigeria navigates its energy future, OLTRASOL concluded by urging Nigerians to resist the urge to vilify reformers once they leave office. “We must not allow political winds to erase the strides made. Mele Kyari’s reforms laid the groundwork for a more transparent and accountable oil sector. History will be kinder than headlines.”
