Mele Kyari Reflects on His Journey From Almajiri to NNPCL CEO at 60

Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has shared a deeply personal reflection on his life’s journey as he celebrates his 60th birthday. The oil industry leader revealed that he began his educational journey as an Almajiri pupil, and through dedication and resilience, rose to lead one of Africa’s largest energy companies.

In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, Kyari expressed gratitude to Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari and the current President Bola Tinubu for giving him the opportunity to serve the country in prominent roles.

“Allah, by His grace, spared my life to reach this exceptional day, marking my 60th year, even much earlier on the Hijri calendar,” Kyari wrote. “I am truly thankful for the opportunity to grow from an Almajiri school pupil to the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company.”

Kyari also thanked Presidents Buhari and Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility of serving as the final Group Managing Director (GMD) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and later as the pioneer CEO of NNPC Limited.

Reflecting on his remarkable journey, Kyari acknowledged the challenges and successes he has encountered along the way, attributing his achievements to divine intervention. “Reflecting on my journey, I can only attribute it to the sufficiency of Allah. My path has been full of ups and downs, pains and triumphs, but His grace has been my guide,” he shared.

As he commemorates this milestone, Kyari expressed a renewed sense of commitment to serve with even more dedication and humility. “I feel an obligation to continue serving with greater conviction, with the expectation of eternal reward,” he added.

Kyari also took a moment to thank his family for their understanding, recognizing that his work commitments meant they often had to bear the burden of his absence. “I owe a debt of gratitude to my family, who have supported me through the sacrifices required by my service to our nation.”

Finally, he extended his appreciation to his teachers, both from his Almajiri background and Western education, as well as his colleagues, friends, and associates, acknowledging their contribution to his personal and professional growth. “This is a turning point for me, and I seek forgiveness from anyone I may have unintentionally hurt along the way,” he concluded.

Kyari’s life story, from humble beginnings to his leadership of NNPC Limited, is an inspiring testament to perseverance, faith, and the transformative power of opportunity.