By Obas Esiedesa, Abuja

Besides playing a dominant role in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Limited, Mr Olufemi Soneye has pointed out that the company is also one of the major contributors to the national power grid.

Soneye, who spoke at an engagement session with selected Kannywood Artistes in Abuja on Tuesday, urged the actors to use their influence to advocate for the protection of national assets, particularly those managed by NNPC Ltd.

He told the actors: “You are not just actors—you are powerful influencers whose voices shape public opinion. That is why I am calling on you today to use your platforms to advocate for the protection of our national assets, particularly those managed by NNPC Ltd.

“Vandalism of critical infrastructure—including oil and gas pipelines, power plants, and energy installations—poses a severe threat to our economy, national security, and overall development. We must all play our part in educating the public about the dangers of such acts. As respected figures in society, you have the influence to drive this message home.

“Are you aware that NNPC Ltd has been at the forefront of efforts to improve Nigeria’s power sector?

“NNPC Ltd is at the heart of Nigeria’s energy security, standing as one of the major contributors to the national grid. Our commitment to power generation is evident in our investments in key facilities”.

Soneye explained that NNPC currently “operates the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant, a wholly owned facility providing essential electricity to the region. Additionally, we co-own two major power plants—Afam VI and Okpai 1 & 2—with a combined installed capacity of 1,132 megawatts. These facilities play a crucial role in ensuring stable electricity supply to homes, industries, and businesses across the country.

“Now, imagine if these critical assets were damaged or destroyed by vandals—entire communities would be plunged into darkness, businesses would suffer, and the economy would take a devastating hit.

“This is why we need your voices to amplify this message: ‘Safeguarding our national assets is safeguarding our future!”

He stressed that NNPC “is fully committed to driving Nigeria’s energy sustainability and economic growth, but we cannot do it alone. We need your partnership in raising awareness and fostering a culture of responsibility and patriotism among Nigerians.

“Under the leadership of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, the NNPC Ltd management team has implemented strategic actions that have significantly enhanced the security of our national assets, delivering unprecedented results never before seen in the sector.

“These achievements have been made possible through the visionary leadership and unwavering support of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, he added.