WIEN Congratulates President Tinubu on the Appointment of New NNPC Board, Calls for Gender Balance

The Women in Energy Network (WIEN) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on the recent appointment of a new board for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited.

In a statement signed by its President, Mrs. Eyono Fatai-Williams, WIEN commended the strategic move, describing it as timely and crucial for advancing Nigeria’s energy and economic transformation agenda.

WIEN welcomed the appointment of the new Group Chief Executive Officer and the 11-member board, led by a non-executive chairman, which includes representation from Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, as well as the Ministries of Petroleum Resources and Finance. The organization acknowledged the diverse professional expertise of the appointees and noted that the reconstitution aligns with Section 59(2) of the Petroleum Industry Act, 2021.

“These appointments mark a significant step towards revitalizing the energy sector, improving operational efficiency, restoring investor confidence, promoting local content, and fostering the commercialization and diversification of Nigeria’s gas resources,” WIEN stated. “At a time of economic uncertainty marked by foreign exchange pressures and inflation, this level of strategic leadership is essential.”

WIEN further expressed appreciation for the inclusion of Mrs. Lydia Shehu Jafiya, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Finance, as the sole female member of the board. The organization congratulated Mrs. Jafiya and pledged its support for her role on the board.

However, while recognizing the progress represented by the appointments, WIEN expressed concern over the lack of adequate female representation, noting that only one woman was included in the 11-member board.

“This underrepresentation is inconsistent with the 35% gender inclusion commitment outlined in the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” Mrs. Fatai-Williams remarked. “Women have made, and continue to make, invaluable contributions to the energy sector. Their exclusion from leadership roles undermines the principles of equity, inclusivity, and sustainability.”

WIEN emphasized that for the Renewed Hope Agenda to achieve its vision of inclusive national development, gender balance must be reflected across all leadership structures, particularly within the energy sector. The group urged President Tinubu and relevant stakeholders to actively work towards equitable gender representation in board compositions and key decision-making positions.

“There are numerous qualified, accomplished women from all six geopolitical zones who have demonstrated expertise and leadership in the energy value chain,” WIEN asserted. “We stand ready to support the government by recommending outstanding female professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the NNPC and broader energy sector reforms.”

The statement concluded with a call to the National Assembly and other relevant agencies to support the President in addressing gender imbalances in leadership appointments, adding that fostering gender equity is not only a matter of fairness but also a catalyst for long-term industry growth and national development.

“Once again, we commend Mr. President for this bold and strategic initiative to reposition Nigeria’s energy sector. We remain hopeful that future appointments will fully embrace the spirit of inclusivity and reflect the exceptional talent Nigeria has to offer—both male and female.”