Business
Buhari Unveils NNPC Ltd, Assures of Value In Line With Global Best Practice

President Muhammadu Buhari has officially unveiled the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) with a charge that it must ensure that the company’s over 200 million shareholders and Nigerians at large get value in line with global best practices.
He noted that the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 has given an additional impetus for a transparent and profitable energy venture.
The president assured that the NNPC Limited will operate as a commercial, independent and viable NOC at par with its peers around the world, to sustainably deliver value to its over 200 million shareholders and the global energy community, while adhering to its fundamental corporate values of integrity, excellence and sustainability.
With the NNPC transitioned to a fully commercial entity, the federal government will henceforth halt all forms of funding for projects and sundry purposes as against what was obtained in the last 45 years of the national oil company’s existence.
According to the president, Nigeria places a high premium on creating the right atmosphere that supports investment and growth to boost its economy and continues to play an important role in sustaining global energy requirements.
“We are transforming our petroleum industry, to strengthen its capacity and market relevance for the present and future global energy priorities,” the president stated.
“By chance of history, I was privileged to lead the creation of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation on the 1st July 1977. Forty-Four years later, I was again privileged to sign the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021, heralding the long-awaited reform of our petroleum sector.
“The provisions of PIA 2021, have given the Nigerian petroleum industry a new impetus, with an improved fiscal framework, transparent governance, enhanced regulation and the creation of a commercially-driven and independent National Oil Company that will operate without relying on government funding and free from institutional regulations such as the Treasury Single Account, Public Procurement and Fiscal Responsibility Acts.
“It will, of course, conduct itself under the best international business practice in transparency, governance and commercial viability.
“Coincidentally, I, on the 1st of July 2022 authorised the transfer of assets from the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation to its successor company, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, and steered the implementation leading to the unveiling of Africa’s largest National Oil company today.
“I, therefore, thank Almighty God for choosing me to consistently play an important role in shaping the destiny of our National Oil Company from the good to the great.”
President Buhari noted that NNPC Ltd is mandated by law to ensure Nigeria’s National Energy Security is guaranteed to support sustainable growth across other sectors of the economy as it delivers energy to the world.
He added that the NNPC Ltd will focus on becoming a dynamic global energy company of choice “to deliver energy for today for tomorrow, for the day days after tomorrow.”
He thanked the leadership and members of the National Assembly for demonstrating uncommon courage and patriotism in the passage of PIA that culminated in the creation of NNPCL.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Timipre Sylva said with the signing of the PIA, which assures international and local oil companies of adequate protection for their investments, the nation’s petroleum industry is no longer rudderless.
‘‘From the onset of this administration, Mr President never concealed his desire to create a more conducive environment for the growth of the oil and gas sector, and addressing legitimate grievances of communities most impacted by extractive industries,” he stated.
‘‘While the country was waiting for the PIA, Nigeria’s oil and gas industry lost about $50 billion worth of investments. In fact, between 2015 and 2019, KPMG states that “only 4 per cent of the $70 billion investment inflows into Africa’s oil and gas industry came to Nigeria even though the country is the continent’s biggest producer and the largest reserves.
‘‘We are setting all these woes behind us, and a clear path for the survival and growth of our petroleum industry is now before us,” he said.
Sylva described the unveiling of NNPC Ltd as a new dawn in the quest for the growth and development of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry, opening new vintages for partnerships.
He thanked the president for his unparalleled leadership, steadfastness, and unalloyed support for ensuring that the country’s oil and gas industry is on a sound footing.
The Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mele Kyari, announced that the company had adopted a strategic initiative to achieve the mandate of energy security for the country by rolling out a comprehensive expansion plan to grow its fuel retail presence from 547 to over 1500 outlets within the next six months.
He assured stakeholders and the global energy community that the new company was endowed with the “best human resources one can find anywhere in the industry.”
“NNPC Limited is positioned to lead Africa’s gradual transition to new energy by deepening natural gas production to create low carbon activities and positively change the story of energy poverty at home and around the world,” he said.
Credit: Daily Sun
Business
$1tn economy: Mergers, acquisitions loom as CBN plans banks’ recapitalization

Mergers and acquisitions are on the horizon for Nigeria’s Deposit Money Banks as they prepare for another round of recapitalization, aligning with the country’s target of achieving a $1 trillion economy. The Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, recently announced plans to recapitalize DMBs during his speech at the 50th-anniversary dinner of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria in Lagos.
Cardoso emphasized the importance of testing the adequacy of Nigeria’s banking industry to meet President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic target. This move follows the floating of Nigeria’s currency, the Naira, against other currencies, resulting in a significant devaluation. The unification of the exchange rate on June 14 prompted the need for a reevaluation of banks’ capital bases.
Eighteen years ago, Nigeria’s banks were recapitalized from N2 billion to N25 billion when the exchange rate was N100/$1. The subsequent depreciation of the Naira to over N780/$1 supports the Central Bank’s decision to pursue recapitalization.
The fate of the country’s 24 commercial banks, particularly those newly established under Governor Godwin Emefiele, raises concerns. Tier 1 banks, including Access Bank, Guaranty Trust Company, Zenith Bank, and United Bank of Africa, demonstrated readiness with a combined capital base of N9.6 trillion at the end of 2022.
However, uncertainties persist about the survival of other banks. The foreign exchange market’s instability, with the Naira closing at N814.60/$1, and rising inflation at 27.33% in October, pose additional challenges to Nigeria’s economy.
Despite these concerns, the President of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Ken Opara, expressed confidence in the banks’ ability to meet the recapitalization objectives. Industry experts like Idakolo Gbolade and Aminu Gwadabe acknowledge the necessity of recapitalization but suggest a realistic timeframe and careful consideration of economic factors.
Gbolade recommends a capitalization of $10 to $15 billion for banks, emphasizing the need for regional, national, and international considerations to support smaller banks. Gwadabe highlights the impact on the entire economic sector, calling for collaboration and consultation between the Central Bank and stakeholders.
Meanwhile, Prof Godwin Oyedokun from Lead City University acknowledges that bank recapitalization aims to strengthen the financial sector but notes the potential challenges for individual banks in terms of cost and time.
In summary, while the recapitalization exercise is seen as necessary for the growth and stability of Nigeria’s banking sector and overall economy, it is expected to be a complex process with implications for individual banks.
Business
Ministry of Finance Incorporated: Can Takang Deliver?

Walter Duru, Ph.D
Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just appointed a new leadership for the Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFI), an asset holding and management company under the Federal Ministry of Finance, with mandate as the sole manager of all federal government investment interests.
According to a statement by Presidential Spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, former Finance Minister, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman is reappointed as Chairman of a 10-man Board of Directors of MOFI, while Dr. Armstrong Ume Takang is also reappointed to serve as the Managing Director/CEO of the organisation.
The other appointees include Tajudeen Datti Ahmed, Executive Director, Portfolio Management; Femi Ogunseinde, Executive Director, Investment Management and Mrs. Oluwakemi Owonubi, Executive Director, Risk.
The non-executive directors are Mr. Ike Chioke, Ms. Chantelle Abdul, Mr. Alheri Nyako, Mr. Bolaji Rafiu Elelu and Mrs. Fatima Nana Mede.
To describe the team as perfect is an understatement, as, when something is described as sweet, it is also important to state what it tastes like. The crux of this article is the appropriateness of the person of the Managing Director, Dr. Armstrong Ume Takong, saddled with the responsibility of the day-to-day running of the organisation.
In the ever-evolving landscape of finance and governance, the appointment of a CEO/Managing Director plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of an organization.
Dr. Armstrong Takang emerges as the ideal candidate for the leadership role at the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, bringing with him a wealth of experience, a proven track record, and a vision for transformative change.
Dr. Takang’s academic background, marked by advanced degrees in Computer Science, Finance and Business exposure/experience, sets the stage for his understanding of the intricate dynamics within the financial, business and investment sector(s). He is well equipped with strategies for exploring progressive solutions to economic challenges.
With an impressive career spanning over decades, Dr. Takang has honed his leadership skills in both public and private sectors. His tenure as the Chief Executive Officer of a leading multinational corporation showcased his ability to navigate complex landscapes, implement strategic financial planning, and drive sustainable growth. These experiences uniquely position him to bring a fresh perspective to the Ministry of Finance Incorporated.
One of Dr. Takang’s standout qualities is his commitment to transparency and accountability. In an era where financial governance is under intense scrutiny, his track record of implementing robust financial controls and ensuring adherence to international standards is commendable.
This commitment to transparency not only fosters trust but also aligns with MOFI’s mission to uphold the highest standards of fiscal responsibility.
Furthermore, Dr. Takang’s innovative approach to problem-solving sets him apart as a forward-thinking leader. His past initiatives, such as spearheading digital transformation in financial processes and advocating for sustainable financial practices, underscore his ability to embrace change and leverage technology for efficiency gains.
In an era where agility and adaptability are crucial, Dr. Takang’s progressive mindset positions MOFI for success in the face of evolving economic landscapes.
As a leader, Dr. Takang places a premium on talent development and team collaboration. His previous roles have seen him cultivate high-performing teams by fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.
This emphasis on human capital is pivotal for the MOFI, ensuring that it can effectively navigate the challenges of an ever-changing global economy.
Beyond his professional acumen, Dr. Takang is known for his civic engagement and commitment to corporate social responsibility. His involvement in community development projects demonstrates a holistic understanding of the impact businesses can have on society. His previous positions, leadership roles and achievements speak volumes for him.
Prior to being MOFI’s CEO, Takang was the CEO of Growth Alliance Partners (GAP), a pan-African firm focused on providing post-investment value-add services to Private Equity backed businesses. He helped to turn around several businesses to create shareholder value.
His decades-long career in investment consultancy and public reforms traverses the public and private sectors across Africa, and in the US, where he worked at the New York Office of the KPMG.
He was Team Lead for a Private Banking Group, managed the Integrated Financial and Economic Management Information System (IFEMIS) Project in Nigeria, and led the Voluntary Asset and Income Declaration Scheme (VAIDS).
Many do not know that Dr Armstrong was pivotal in designing and implementing several national initiatives like the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS), the Office for Nigerian Content Development in ICT under NITDA, the ICT component of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)/Nigeria Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU), among others.
He is not new in the political environment, particularly, within the Ministry of Finance. He was Special Adviser to the Honourable Minister of Finance, Budget, and National Planning, as well as Lead of the MOFI Transformation Team. It is a terrain that he is very conversant with, and this will ease stakeholder engagement, particularly, when there is a proper stakeholder management strategy in place.
Dr. Armstrong Takang’s appointment as the CEO of MOFI is a strategic move toward ushering in a new era of financial leadership, inclusivity, and discipline in managing public investments.
His blend of academic excellence, extensive experience, commitment to transparency, innovative thinking, and emphasis on talent development makes him the perfect fit for steering MOFI towards greater heights.
There is no gainsaying the fact that the leadership of MOFI, as announced, is a perfect combination. The transformations that MOFI has experienced in the last eleven months, under the leadership of Dr. Shamsudeen Usman as Chairman, and Dr. Armstrong Takong as Chief Executive Officer is evident and must not be paused.
As the financial landscape continues to evolve, Nigerians expect that Dr. Takang’s leadership must not only meet the challenges of the present, but proactively shape the future of financial governance.
It is safe to conclude that Mr. President’s decision to reappoint the duo of Shamsudeen Usman and Armstrong Takong is an act of patriotism.
Permit me to also single out Mr. Ike Chioke, the Group Managing Director at Afrinvest West Africa Limited, who also made the list, as a non-executive director.
With the calibre of persons on the present MOFI leadership team, failure is not an option.
MOFI is expected to support the Federal Government’s efforts towards addressing economic challenges, while spurring the renewal of the economy. There is no better time to be relevant.
Expectations are very high, and Nigerians are in a hurry to see results. Let Federal Government’s investments work for the country.
The time to act is now!
Dr. Chike Walter Duru (Assistant Professor of Communication) is a communication expert, researcher, public relations, and stakeholder engagement consultant. He could be reached on: walterchike@gmail.com.
Business
Rising inflation pushes more Nigerians into poverty under Tinubu govt

Nigeria’s escalating inflation is causing increasing hardship for its citizens, resulting in a shrinking purchasing power and heightened poverty levels during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Headline inflation surged 24 times in two years to reach 27.33% in October, primarily driven by a spike in food inflation to 31.52% from September’s 30.64%. This inflationary trend is adversely affecting various aspects of daily life, including the costs of food items, accommodation, clothing, electricity, and education fees.
While the Central Bank of Nigeria asserts that its recent monetary policies are yielding positive results, a market survey reveals a significant surge in food prices, with essentials such as rice, beans, groundnut oil, bread, eggs, and garri experiencing notable increases. The impact of inflation is vividly described by residents such as Chinedu Odah, who notes the challenges of meeting basic needs and rising education costs.
Across different regions, Nigerians report struggling with the soaring prices of food items, leading to reduced meal frequency and increased financial burdens. The World Bank data indicates that four million Nigerians slipped into poverty within the first five months of 2023 due to accelerating inflation. Despite President Tinubu’s promises to revitalize the economy, the fuel subsidy removal and foreign market liberalization since June have negatively impacted the nation’s economic stability.
Although the government claims improved revenue after subsidy removal, the effects on the well-being of Nigerians remain elusive. Nigeria’s high debt servicing, as reported by the World Bank, coupled with negative economic indicators like inflation, foreign exchange rates, and interest rates, paints a challenging economic scenario. The government’s initiatives, such as increasing the minimum wage, rolling out Compressed Natural Gas buses, and addressing the tax gap, are viewed as steps toward economic recovery.
However, the delay in implementing certain pledges, such as the N75,000 payment to vulnerable Nigerians, raises concerns about the effectiveness of these measures. Experts emphasize the urgent need to create employment opportunities, focus on production, and address the challenges in agriculture to combat inflation and boost economic growth. The prevailing economic difficulties underscore the resilience of Nigerians in the face of these challenges.
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