The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd., Olufemi Soneye, has emphasized the significant contributions and commitment of the company to power generation in Nigeria.
Soneye, who stated this on Tuesday while addressing the Kannywood Community, also noted that NNPC Ltd is at the heart of Nigeria’s energy security, standing as one of the major contributors to the national grid.
He said, “It is an honour to address this esteemed gathering of influential personalities, cultural icons, and respected voices in our society. At events like this, I usually prefer to speak from the heart, but in today’s world, one must be cautious to avoid misinterpretation.
“You are not just actors—you are powerful influencers whose voices shape public opinion. That is why I am calling on you today to use your platforms to advocate for the protection of our national assets, particularly those managed by NNPC Ltd.”
Speaking further, Soneye sought collaboration with movie producers and skit-makers to protect the country’s energy assets from vandals, saying “NNPC Ltd is fully committed to driving Nigeria’s energy sustainability and economic growth, but we cannot do it alone.
“We need your partnership in raising awareness and fostering a culture of responsibility and patriotism among Nigerians,” he added.
He equally explained that the corporation is a major force in power generation, operating key facilities such as the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant, Afam VI, and Okpai 1 & 2 power plants, with a combined installed capacity of 1,132 megawatts.
While opining that the facilities play a crucial role in ensuring stable electricity supply to homes, industries, and businesses across the country, he warned against vandalism of critical infrastructure, saying it poses a severe threat to the economy, national security, and overall development of the country.
“Currently, we operate the Maiduguri Emergency Power Plant, a wholly owned facility providing essential electricity to the region. Additionally, we co-own two major power plants—Afam VI and Okpai 1 & 2—with a combined installed capacity of 1,132 megawatts. These facilities play a crucial role in ensuring stable electricity supply to homes, industries, and businesses across the country.
“Now, imagine if these critical assets were damaged or destroyed by vandals—entire communities would be plunged into darkness, businesses would suffer, and the economy would take a devastating hit,” Soneye stated.
He, however, called on personalities in the entertainment industry to use their platforms to advocate for the protection of national assets, urged them to raise awareness and foster a culture of responsibility and patriotism among Nigerians.
“Vandalism of critical infrastructure—including oil and gas pipelines, power plants, and energy installations—poses a severe threat to our economy, national security, and overall development.
“We must all play our part in educating the public about the dangers of such acts. As respected figures in society, you have the influence to drive this message home,” he said.
Concluding, Soneye maintained that under the leadership of the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, the NNPC Ltd management team has implemented strategic actions that have significantly enhanced the security of our national assets, delivering unprecedented results never before seen in the sector.
He added that the achievements have been made possible through the visionary leadership and unwavering support of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“We also extend our deep appreciation to the Chief of Defence Staff, the military, and all law enforcement agencies for their dedication and commitment to safeguarding our nation’s critical infrastructure,” he stated.
