The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has confirmed the resignation of its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, bringing an end to his nearly two-year service at the helm of the organization’s public affairs and media strategy.
Soneye made the announcement in a personal statement shared via Facebook on Saturday, where he reflected on his time with the company and cited personal responsibilities as the reason for his departure.
“Stepping aside now allows me to give more attention to my family and other personal commitments that require my presence,” Soneye stated, expressing gratitude for the support he received during his tenure.
He described his role at the rebranded state-owned oil firm as a privilege, noting that he was “proud to have contributed to the ongoing transformation of NNPC Ltd.” His farewell message resonated widely on social media, earning plaudits from colleagues and media professionals across the industry.
Despite stepping down, Soneye pledged continued loyalty to NNPCL, describing himself as a “steadfast supporter and ambassador.” He encouraged journalists to maintain “balanced and constructive” coverage of the company’s operations and strategic goals.
Soneye was appointed on October 18, 2023, during a wave of high-level personnel changes at the national energy company. He succeeded Garba Muhammad, who had taken on the role in 2021.
Before his appointment, Soneye enjoyed a distinguished career in journalism, with editorial stints in Nigeria, Australia, and the United States.
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He notably served as Editor for Air Force One Magazine in Washington, D.C., and was the President of the Nigerian Media Practitioners in the U.S. capital.
His professional affiliations span the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the National Association of Black Journalists, among others.
In recognition of his work in strategic communications, Soneye was honored with the “Spokesperson of the Year” award by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations in both 2024 and 2025.
His departure marks another shift within the leadership of NNPCL as it continues its restructuring and push toward operational excellence in Nigeria’s evolving energy landscape.