By Omeiza Ajayi

The Ijaw Youth Council IYC Worldwide has declared support for the ongoing anti-corruption reforms at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited NNPCL, commending its Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, for restoring the credibility of the corporation.

President of IYC, Dr Theophilus Alaye, in a statement issued Monday in Abuja, said within one year of his leadership, Ojulari has brought a refreshing wave of reforms, strategic investments and institutional discipline to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.

Alaye, who is also the President-General of the Coalition of Niger Delta Ethnic Nationalities, said from the perspective of host communities in the Niger Delta, this administration has not only restored confidence but also demonstrated a sincere commitment to doing things differently.

He stressed that one of the most commendable achievements of Ojulari was his deliberate effort to identify, block and eliminate systemic loopholes that previously enabled fraud and revenue leakages in the oil sector.

Alaye noted that through strengthened internal controls, digital monitoring systems and stricter regulatory compliance, fraudulent practices have been drastically reduced, while oil theft and diversion networks are being dismantled.

He said; “Transparency in crude lifting and revenue reporting has improved significantly.
This bold approach has not only increased national revenue but also restored credibility to NNPCL as a responsible national energy company.

“Within one year, Engr. Ojulari has positioned NNPCL as a major driver of investments both locally and internationally.”

He explained that some notable strides included strategic collaborations with international oil companies and independent investors to boost crude production and revive dormant oil fields.

Alaye pointed out that engagements and investment discussions with energy stakeholders in regions such as the Middle East and Europe, positioning Nigeria as a reliable global energy partner.

According to him, these investments are not just numbers—they translate into jobs, economic stability, and long-term development for the Niger Delta and the nation at large.

He said; “For decades, the Niger Delta has demanded inclusion, fairness, and respect. Under this leadership, we are beginning to see: improved engagement with community stakeholders; Recognition of the role of youths in securing national assets and a shift from confrontation to collaboration.”