Paragraph 1: Olufemi Soneye’s Resignation and Personal Reasons:
Olufemi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has officially resigned from his position. Soneye announced his departure via a Facebook post on Saturday, expressing gratitude for the support he received from colleagues during his 20-month tenure. He cited personal reasons for his decision, stating a need to dedicate more time to his family and attend to responsibilities that require his closer attention. This announcement garnered positive reactions from his online followers, who applauded his decision and offered commendations.
Paragraph 2: Soneye’s Reflections on His Tenure at NNPCL:
Reflecting on his time at NNPCL, Soneye described it as an "honour" and expressed pride in his contributions to the company’s ongoing transformation. His role involved managing the company’s communication strategies, navigating a complex and often scrutinized industry. Soneye’s leadership in corporate communications played a crucial role in shaping public perception of NNPCL during a period of significant change and restructuring. His efforts focused on transparent communication and maintaining a positive relationship with stakeholders, including the media, the public, and government entities.
Paragraph 3: Commitment to NNPCL’s Continued Success:
Despite stepping down from his official role, Soneye affirmed his continued support for NNPCL, pledging to remain a "steadfast supporter and ambassador" for the company. He urged media professionals to maintain a "robust, balanced, and constructive reportage" in support of NNPCL’s mission. This underscores his belief in the importance of accurate and responsible journalism in portraying the company’s activities and contributing to a well-informed public discourse on Nigeria’s energy sector. His call to action reflects a commitment to the long-term success of NNPCL, even beyond his direct involvement.
Paragraph 4: Soneye’s Professional Background and Accomplishments:
Soneye brought a wealth of experience to his role at NNPCL, having built a distinguished career in international journalism prior to joining the company. He worked in various media landscapes, including Nigeria, Australia, and the United States. His experience included serving as the Editor of the US Air Force One Magazine in Washington, D.C., and as President of the Nigerian Media Practitioners in the U.S. capital. His diverse background equipped him with a unique perspective on communication strategies and cross-cultural understanding, valuable assets in his role at NNPCL.
Paragraph 5: Professional Affiliations and Recognition:
Soneye is a member of several prestigious professional associations, including the Nigerian Union of Journalists, the Society of Professional Journalists, the National Association of Black Journalists, and the Guild of Corporate Online Media Publishers. His active involvement in these organizations highlights his dedication to upholding journalistic ethics and promoting best practices within the media industry. His contributions to the field were further recognized through awards such as the "Spokesperson of the Year" award from the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, which he received in both 2024 and 2025. This consecutive recognition demonstrates his consistent excellence and impact in corporate communications.
Paragraph 6: Transition and Future Endeavors:
Soneye’s appointment to the Chief Corporate Communications Officer role in October 2023 marked a transition in leadership, replacing Garba Muhammad who had held the position since August 2021. While Soneye’s departure creates another transition point for NNPCL, his emphasis on continued support and his call for responsible media coverage suggest a smooth handover and sustained focus on effective communication. As Soneye transitions to focus on personal commitments, his legacy at NNPCL, marked by a commitment to transparency and strategic communication, will undoubtedly influence the future direction of the company’s public image and engagement with stakeholders. His future endeavors, while currently unspecified, are likely to draw upon his extensive experience in communication and journalism.
