The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), now known as the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, is the state-owned oil corporation responsible for the exploration, production, refining, and marketing of petroleum products in Nigeria.

Established in 1977, the NNPC plays a crucial role in managing the country’s vast oil and gas resources, formulating policies, and ensuring energy security.

In July 2022, NNPC transitioned into a limited liability company following the enactment of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021. This transformation aimed to improve efficiency, transparency, and commercial viability while reducing reliance on government funding.

Read also: Technocrats reign in NNPC’s board new look

Below is a chronological list of the Group Managing Directors (GMDs) who have steered the NNPC since its inception and their geopolitical zones:

Remilekun A. Marinho (1977-1980) – South West

Odoliyi Lolomari (1980-1981) – South South

Lawrence Amu (1981-1985) – South West

Aret Adams (1985-1990) – South South

Thomas John (1990-1992) – South South

Edmund Daukoru (1992-1993) – South South

Chamberlin Oyibo (1993-1995) – South South

Dalhatu Bayero (1995-1999) – North West

Jackson G. Obaseki (1999-2003) – South South

Funsho Kupolokun (2003-2007) – South West

Abubakar Yar’Adua (2007-2009) – North West

Muhammed Bakindo (2009-2010) – North East

Shehu Ladan (2010) – North West

Augustine O. Oniwon (2010-2012) – North Central

Andrew Yakubu (2012-2014) – North West

Joseph Thlama Dawha (2014-2015) – North East

Ibe Kachikwu (2015-2016) – South South

Maikanti Baru (2016-2019) – North East

Mele Kyari (2019-2025) – North East

Bayo Bashir Ojulari (2025-Present) – North Central

Taofeek Oyedokun is a correspondent at BusinessDay with years of experience reporting on political economy, public policy, migration, environment/climate change, and social justice. A graduate of Political Science from the University of Lagos, he has also earned multiple professional certificates in journalism and media-related training. Known for his clear, data-driven reporting, Oyedokun covers a wide range of national and international socioeconomic issues, bringing depth, balance, and public-interest focus to his work.

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