In a collective gesture of approval, 1,000 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) affiliated with the Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON) extended commendations to President Bola Tinubu for the reappointment of Engr. Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
In a letter addressed to President Tinubu, COCSON emphasized that the decision to retain Kyari in his role demonstrated the President’s confidence in Kyari’s wealth of experience and accomplishments in the oil and gas sector.
The letter expressed COCSON’s endorsement and appreciation for Kyari’s reappointment, highlighting its positive impact on the development of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. COCSON, serving as the umbrella body for various civil society organisations across the country, lauded Kyari’s visionary leadership and commitment to transparency and accountability within the NNPCL.
Part of the letter read, “We write this letter to express our utmost appreciation and endorsement for your recent decision to re-appoint Mallam Mele Kyari as the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL). COCSON is the umbrella body that represents various civil society organisations across Nigeria, all working towards the betterment of our society.”
The letter continued, praising Kyari’s achievements and highlighting initiatives that have directly impacted the lives of ordinary citizens. COCSON commended Kyari’s commitment to transparency and accountability, which has significantly reduced corruption within the NNPCL, directing more resources towards development projects benefiting marginalized communities.
Specifically, COCSON praised Kyari’s implementation of the Direct Sales Direct Purchase (DSDP) program as a shining example of dedication to ensuring the availability and affordability of petroleum products for all Nigerians. The program has curbed middlemen activities and eliminated consumer exploitation, aligning with civil society organisations advocating for consumer rights.
The letter also acknowledged Kyari’s efforts in prioritizing social responsibility initiatives and community development projects through the NNPCL’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs. COCSON recognized Kyari’s active engagement with civil society organisations in uplifting grassroots communities, providing support in education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
Furthermore, COCSON lauded Kyari’s role in fostering partnerships and collaborations with civil society organisations, acknowledging his willingness to listen to concerns and recommendations. The letter concluded by expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for recognizing Kyari’s achievements and reappointing him, affirming faith in transformative leadership prioritizing the welfare of the Nigerian people.