Olufemi Soneye Resigns as NNPC Spokesperson After 20 Months in Role

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has announced the resignation of its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, who has stepped down after nearly two years in the position. His departure, shared in a personal statement on Saturday, concludes a period characterized by active media engagement, building public trust, and earning professional accolades within Nigeria’s energy communications field.

Soneye, appointed in October 2021, revealed his resignation through a Facebook post, stating his intention to focus more on personal responsibilities and family life.

“I have stepped aside from my role as Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC Ltd. This decision enables me to spend more time with my family and handle personal duties that now require my closer attention,” he said.

This announcement comes as NNPC Ltd. undergoes significant reforms in Nigeria’s energy sector, including the deregulation of fuel prices, increased involvement of the private sector, and an emphasis on adopting renewable energy.

Before joining NNPC Ltd., Soneye was a well-respected international journalist with a broad career that included experiences in Nigeria, the United States, and Australia. He previously served as the editor of Air Force One Magazine in the U.S. and built a reputation for strategic and clear communication.

During his 20-month tenure at NNPC’s communications department, Soneye led several notable initiatives:

– Enhancing the company’s public image after its transition to a commercial limited liability company

– Fostering better communication between the oil sector and the public

– Pioneering crisis communication strategies during significant national fuel distribution issues

His contributions received widespread acclaim, culminating in his recognition as “Spokesperson of the Year” from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in both 2024 and 2025.

In his farewell message, Soneye reaffirmed his support for NNPC Ltd.’s vision and mission, urging fellow media professionals to maintain accountability through responsible and constructive reporting.

“I will continue to support and advocate for NNPC Ltd. wherever I go. I encourage my colleagues to uphold robust and fair reporting to further the Company’s worthy mission and strategic role in Nigeria’s energy future,” he stated.

NNPC Ltd. has yet to name a successor, although internal sources indicate that a selection process is in progress to ensure a seamless transition.

The news of his resignation has elicited mixed responses from stakeholders in the energy, media, and public relations sectors. While many commend his professionalism and poise during his tenure, others voiced concerns about the timing of his departure amid the current instability in Nigeria’s energy sector.

“Soneye brought credibility and composure to a challenging role. His departure will resonate not just within NNPC, but throughout the communication landscape,” noted one industry analyst.

With Nigeria’s oil sector evolving rapidly, the spokesperson’s role at NNPC is vital in shaping public perception, managing stakeholder relations, and communicating government policies to both domestic and global audiences.

As the company searches for a new voice to lead its communications team, Soneye’s exit serves as a reminder of the personal sacrifices associated with public roles, and the need for organizations to balance strategic continuity with human considerations.