From almajiri school to NNPCL CEO – Kyari reflects on his  journey at 60

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Mele Kyari, has narrated his journey from being an Almajiri school pupil to leading Africa’s largest energy company.

Kyari shared this reflection on Wednesday via his X (formally Twitter) account to mark his 60th birthday, expressing deep gratitude for the opportunities that shaped his remarkable career.

He partly wrote, “I am profoundly grateful to my country for giving me the opportunity to grow from an Almajiri (Tsangaya) school pupil to become the CEO of Africa’s largest energy company.”

He extended appreciation to former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu for trusting him with significant responsibilities, including serving as the last Group Managing Director of the NNPC and the pioneer CEO of NNPCL.

Kyari reflected on his life’s journey, describing it as a mix of challenges and triumphs. He stated, “Reflecting backwards alone can’t account for the profoundly eventful life I spent to this date, walking through good and bad times, travails and triumphs, pains and happiness, fails and successes and many more that only the sufficiency of Allah will explain.

“Allah, by His grace, spared my life to this exceptional day, making it my 60th year from birth, even much earlier on the Hijri calendar.”

However, he recognised the sacrifices made by his family and the unwavering support of friends, colleagues, and mentors throughout his journey, stating, “I am hugely indebted to my family for being nearly absent for most of my later years serving our nation and the common good.”

He also expressed his appreciation to his teachers, both from the Almajiri and Western educational systems, as well as associates who contributed to his success.

“My deep appreciation to my family, friends and associates, my colleagues at work and my teachers (Western and of Almajiri extractions), and many unmentioned people who account for many of my accomplishments, unconditional support and my overall well-being.

“At this milestone, I feel the obligation to serve with even greater conviction and with elevated expectation of eternal recompense so deeply pleasing.

“This is a turning point, and I seek forgiveness from anyone I might have hurt unintentionally or unavoidably,” he added.