The Group Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari has disclosed that he went from being an Almajiri school pupil to becoming the head of the national oil company.
Kyari stated this on his X handle, @MKKyari, on Wednesday as he marks his 60th birthday.
He expressed deep gratitude to Nigeria for the opportunities that have shaped his journey, from his modest beginnings to the remarkable position he holds today. Kyari particularly thanked former President Muhammadu Buhari and current President Bola Tinubu for the chance to serve as the last Group Managing Director (GMD) of NNPC and as the first CEO of NNPCL.
Reflecting on his life, Kyari acknowledged the challenges and triumphs he has faced, noting that his experiences—good and bad, painful and joyous, filled with failures and successes—can only be explained by the sufficiency of Allah.
“At this milestone, I feel a deep sense of duty to continue serving with even greater conviction, with an elevated expectation of eternal reward,” he said. Kyari also expressed heartfelt thanks to his family for their sacrifices, as he has often been absent due to his national duties.
He further expressed his appreciation to his family, friends, colleagues, mentors—both in the formal education system and in the Almajiri tradition—and all those who have supported him along the way, contributing to his accomplishments, well-being, and overall success.
