In an industry often challenged by complexity and change, few professionals stand out as beacons of excellence and visionary leadership. Engineer Yusuf Usman’s appointment as a Non-Executive Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited Board is a moment for Nigeria to celebrate not just an appointment, but the arrival of a true titan in the oil and gas sector.

Reflecting on his journey, one might say, “Where there is experience, integrity, and innovation, progress is inevitable.” Eng. Usman embodies these qualities through a career spanning over three decades dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s hydrocarbons industry.

Graduating in 1987 with a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Engineer Usman started his professional journey with Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) in Warri as a Facilities and Project Engineer. His early roles were marked by a hands-on approach and leadership in complex projects that laid a strong foundation for his future contributions. Joining NNPC in 1993, he steadily rose through ranks, serving as Technical Assistant to the Group General Manager of NAPIMS and later as Superintendent at Nigerian Gas Company. His oversight of critical projects, including the Calabar to Ajaokuta Pipeline and the Obiafu-Obrikom-Oben (OB3) Gas Pipeline, significantly bolstered Nigeria’s domestic gas infrastructure. These projects have been pivotal in increasing Nigeria’s gas supply capacity, supporting local industries, and strengthening export potentials.

Engineer Usman’s tenure as Chief Operating Officer for Gas and Power at NNPC was transformational. Under his leadership, Nigeria’s domestic gas footprint doubled, positioning the country as a key player in Africa’s LNG market. His introduction of design competitions in the Amenam/Kpono project saved millions of naira and set new standards for cost-effective project delivery. His strategic contract negotiations and focus on value maximization have been instrumental in safeguarding public resources while accelerating growth. In a sector frequently mired in inefficiencies, Eng. Usman’s disciplined approach serves as a benchmark for effective governance and fiscal responsibility.Beyond his technical and managerial prowess, Engineer Usman is deeply committed to community development and national unity. Representing the North East geopolitical zone, he has championed initiatives aimed at improving energy access, education, and healthcare in underserved regions. His work fosters not only economic growth but also social cohesion a critical factor in Nigeria’s diverse landscape.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while giving a speech, emphasized that he searched thoroughly before selecting his new NNPC team. With Engr. Yusuf Usman now on board, his Renewed Hope Agenda anchored on progressive ideologies and national rejuvenation has gained an asset of immense value. Usman’s inclusion is not just strategic; it is a masterstroke that will accelerate the realization of this vision. His vast experience and commitment to best practices align perfectly with the President’s call for results-driven leadership.

With Nigeria’s renewed focus on energy transition and gas commercialization, the reconstituted NNPC Board faces immense challenges and opportunities. Engineer Usman’s extensive experience and visionary mindset uniquely qualify him to steer strategic reforms that will improve operational efficiency, enhance local content, and restore investor confidence. The nation looks forward to his contributions in advancing NNPC’s mandate to optimize the country’s vast petroleum resources responsibly and sustainably.

When a child performs well, it's important to show appreciation and offer motivation to encourage them to achieve even greater success. Therefore, it's fair to say that Nigeria now boasts a gas titan in Engineer Yusuf Usman an exemplary professional whose achievements deserve recognition and whose future contributions promise to elevate the nation’s energy sector.

Comrade Bamidele Atoyebi, a philanthropist, social commentator, and developmental activist of the BAT Ideological Group, wrote this from Abuja.