Petroleum Ministry Honours Buhari’s Legacy in Oil Sector
The Ministry of Petroleum Resources has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a foundational figure in the country’s oil and gas industry whose legacy continues to shape the sector.
The ministry made its position known in an official condolence message issued in Abuja on Monday, following the announcement of the former President’s death in a UK hospital on Sunday, July 13.
Signed by Christopher Ugwuegbulam, Head of Press and Public Relations Unit, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, the ministry’s message recalled Buhari’s unique history with the petroleum sector, dating back nearly five decades.
Buhari, who first served as Federal Commissioner (now Minister) for Petroleum and Natural Resources from 1976 to 1978 under then-Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo, was also the pioneer Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), now NNPC Limited.
The statement noted that “his commitment to clean, accountable governance in the petroleum industry remains a guiding light,” adding that the infrastructure and institutions built under his leadership laid the groundwork for modern reforms.
As President from 2015 to 2023, Buhari once again held the petroleum portfolio, leading the charge for reforms that culminated in the signing of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) a law long sought to improve transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
“From foundational infrastructure to bold sectoral reforms, President Buhari’s legacy in the oil and gas sector is far-reaching,” the statement read.
The ministry extended its condolences to Buhari’s family, the government, and the people of Nigeria, praying for divine comfort and eternal rest for the former president.
