JUST IN: NNPC – Soneye caps a bold era of reform

Mr. Olufemi Soneye, who has served as the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), has formally stepped down from his role, drawing to a close a dynamic tenure that spanned nearly two years.

In a farewell message delivered on Friday, June 20, 2025, to colleagues and media professionals, Soneye conveyed his profound appreciation for the support and collaboration he enjoyed during his time with the organization.

His 20-month leadership of the communications arm of NNPC Ltd has been widely acknowledged for reshaping the company’s public image.

It has also witnessed the enhancement of the company’s relationship with stakeholders through strategic media engagement.

Soneye thanked both internal teams and external media partners for their commitment to sharing NNPC Ltd’s evolving story with clarity and purpose.

“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering support, professionalism, and dedication that each of you has shown in amplifying the voice and vision of NNPC Ltd over the past 20 months,” Soneye wrote in his message.

According to him, the decision to leave his role was not taken lightly.

Citing personal reasons, Soneye explained that he felt the time was right to prioritize family commitments and focus on pressing responsibilities outside of the corporate sphere.

“It has truly been a privilege to serve this organization and, by extension, our country.

“I’m proud to have contributed to the transformation journey of NNPC Ltd and the broader energy sector,” he added.

A seasoned professional with a rich background in media relations, corporate communications, and strategic messaging, Soneye brought a wealth of experience to the position.

His tenure at NNPC Ltd coincided with one of the most pivotal periods in the company’s history.

It supposedly marked by reforms under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) that transitioned the company into a fully commercial enterprise.

Even as he exits his official duties, Soneye reaffirmed his unwavering support for NNPC Ltd and pledged to remain a committed ambassador of the company’s mission and vision.

He encouraged his colleagues to continue upholding the standards of objective and constructive communication that were cultivated during his time in office.

“I urge all my colleagues, media partners, and stakeholders to continue with balanced, thoughtful, and responsible reporting that reflects the importance of NNPC Ltd’s role in shaping Nigeria’s energy future,” he said.

During his tenure, NNPC Ltd took significant strides in reinforcing its reputation as a modern, transparent, and accountable organization.

Through proactive communication strategies, the company sought to demystify its operations and bridge the gap between the oil and gas sector and the Nigerian public.

Soneye played a central role in driving this narrative, leveraging various media channels and stakeholder engagements to project a renewed image of the organization.

His leadership also saw the strengthening of media partnerships and the establishment of more responsive communication protocols within NNPC Ltd.

These efforts not only helped improve public trust but also aligned with the broader strategic goals of the company in an era of regulatory reforms and market-driven operations.

Industry experts and observers have since lauded Soneye’s contributions, describing him as a forward-thinking communicator who brought clarity, professionalism, and energy to his role.

Many credit him with enhancing NNPC Ltd’s credibility during a time when public scrutiny of the oil and gas sector was especially high.

Commentators have also noted that under his watch, the company became more accessible to the media and the general public.

Accordint to them, this is all thanks to deliberate transparency initiatives and a focus on open, honest communication.

Soneye’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in NNPC Ltd’s corporate evolution.

However, his impact is expected to endure, as the company continues its journey toward becoming a globally competitive and commercially driven national oil company.

As he steps away from his official duties, Soneye leaves behind a legacy of professionalism, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership.

It is one that will continue to influence how NNPC Ltd engages with Nigerians and the global energy community alike.

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