The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has unveiled a significant leadership shakeup, with the appointment of accomplished professionals to key executive roles—most notably, trailblazing legal expert Adesua Dozie and seasoned business strategist Sophia Mbakwe. This move is part of the organization’s broader efforts to streamline operations and reinforce its corporate governance.
Adesua Dozie, formerly Vice Chairman of ExxonMobil Companies in Nigeria, and notably the first female Regional General Counsel for Africa Upstream, has been named Company Secretary and Chief Legal Officer at NNPC. Known for her bold leadership and deep expertise in international energy law, Dozie brings a legacy of legal excellence and strategic foresight. Her appointment marks a powerful statement about the growing influence of women in Nigeria’s energy sector and sets a new standard for regulatory compliance and legal integrity at the national oil company.
Meanwhile, Sophia Mbakwe, an experienced executive with a solid track record in corporate services, has been appointed Executive Vice President, Business Services. In her new role, she will oversee the company’s administrative, human resources, and support functions—ensuring that operational efficiency remains high and internal processes align with NNPC’s long-term objectives. Her leadership is expected to enhance cross-functional collaboration and optimize internal workflows within the company.
Dozie and Mbakwe are joined by Rowland Ewubare, appointed Group Chief Operating Officer, and Mumuni Dagazau, now Executive Vice President, Downstream. Ewubare will oversee NNPC’s daily operations, while Dagazau will manage refining, distribution, and marketing efforts across the country.
These strategic appointments follow the recent reconstitution of NNPC’s board and the naming of Bashir Ojulari, former Shell executive and current Executive Vice President at Renaissance Africa Energy Company, to a top leadership position.
The restructuring is in line with President Bola Tinubu’s broader initiative to reposition NNPC for operational excellence, transparency, and increased investor confidence.
With Adesua Dozie and Sophia Mbakwe stepping into these influential roles, NNPC signals a future where experienced female leaders are not only part of the table but are actively shaping Nigeria’s energy narrative.
