By Elizabeth Godwin
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has announced key executive appointments as part of a major internal restructuring, naming Maryam Idrisu as the new Managing Director of NNPC Trading and Obioma Abangwu as Chief Liaison Officer for Board Matters.
The appointments come amid the reported exit of more than 200 employees, including high-ranking executives and perceived loyalists of former Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari. Among those affected are Bala Wunti, former Chief of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS); Ibrahim Onoja, Managing Director of Kaduna Refinery; and Lawal Sade, Chief Compliance Officer and former Managing Director of NNPC Trading.
Sources within the organization describe the shake-up as part of a broader restructuring process, aimed in part at bringing fresh talent into the system. One insider indicated that many of the staff asked to leave had less than 17 months remaining before their official retirement and were offered incentives for early exit.
“Many of those affected had about 17 months or less before retirement. It’s not unusual — this early retirement strategy has been a longstanding practice at NNPC. It’s worth noting that some recently promoted individuals also had close ties to Kyari,” the source added.
Leadership Background
Idrisu brings extensive experience to her new role. According to her LinkedIn profile, she previously served as Executive Director of Planning and Commercial at NNPC Trading and held the role of Executive Director for Crude and Condensate. Her earlier roles include Manager of Pricing and Valuation and Deputy Manager of Pricing and Performance in the Crude Oil Marketing Division.
Academically, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Abuja (1996–1999) and a Master’s degree in Energy Economics from the University of Dundee (2004–2005).
While limited public information is available about Obioma Abangwu, corporate records from NNPC indicate that she previously headed the Corporate Law and Board Matters division. She is also noted to be an avid golfer.
Looking Ahead
This wave of exits and appointments signals the beginning of what may be a wider overhaul within NNPC, as the company continues its post-reform transformation following its transition into a limited liability entity. The leadership reshuffle is expected to impact operations and governance across the corporation’s strategic units in the months ahead.
