The Ministry of Petroleum Resources has paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a foundational figure in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
The Ministry issued a condolence message on Monday, signed by Christopher Ugwuegbulam, Head of Press and Public Relations Unit, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, recalling Buhari’s unique history with the petroleum sector, dating back nearly five decades.
Buhari served as Federal Commissioner for Petroleum and Natural Resources from 1976 to 1978 under Head of State Olusegun Obasanjo and was the pioneer Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).
The Ministry noted that Buhari’s commitment to clean and accountable governance in the petroleum industry remained a guiding light, with infrastructure and institutions built under his leadership laying the groundwork for modern reforms.
The Ministry described Buhari’s legacy in the oil and gas sector as far-reaching, from foundational infrastructure to bold sectoral reforms.
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.
As President from 2015 to 2023, Buhari led reforms that culminated in the signing of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), aimed at improving transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
