The head of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has described himself as a northerner while addressing public reactions to his recent appointment especially from northerners who feel President is only favoring the Yorubas, as reported by NIGERIAN TRIBUNE.
Ojulari explained that he is originally from Ilorin and was raised in Kaduna.
He said he only began learning the Yoruba language in his teenage years.
He also studied in Zaria, which further connects him to the northern part of the country.
He expressed surprise that some people questioned his northern background.
He urged people across Nigeria, especially from the North, to support him in his new role.
He said leading the NNPCL is a big responsibility that requires cooperation and unity.
According to him, development in the oil and gas sector will benefit both the region and the nation.
“I need the support of the North to do this work well and bring development to the North and the whole of Nigeria. I need everyone’s prayer as this work is not what one person can do. We need to work together to ensure Nigeria’s progress.”
“I was surprised when people said I was not from the North. I am a child of the North, and I come from Ilorin. I was brought up in Kaduna State. I only learn Yoruba, so I am a northerner(northern Nigerian),” he said.
