Ojulari's Decades-Long Oil Industry Experience Earns Him Blueprint Award
Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), is a deserving recipient of the Blueprint Award of the Year.
Ojulari's career spans over three decades, beginning as a Fields and Process Engineer with Elf Petroleum Nigeria in 1989. He then joined Shell, where he held increasingly senior positions across Nigeria, Europe, and the Middle East for more than two decades.
During his tenure as Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration and Production Company between 2015 and 2021, production increased by 20%, operating costs fell by 30%, and capital project costs were reduced by 40%. This demonstrates Ojulari's ability to deliver results in a technically demanding industry.
Ojulari's experience extends beyond Shell, with roles as Sub-Saharan Africa Regional Planner at Shell's headquarters and Asset Leader in Oman. He also served as Board Chairman of BAT Advisory and Energy Company Nigeria Limited, providing executive-level business and technical advisory services, including involvement in a major acquisition valued at more than $2 billion.
As GCEO of NNPCL, Ojulari brings significant experience to an industry facing persistent challenges, including crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, declining investment, and the need for efficient production and value creation. His appointment is seen as a call upon Nigerian professionals with international experience to apply their knowledge to national institutions.