NNPCL’s Femi Soneye resigns as Comms Chief, cites family, personal priorities.
Ex-journalist reflects on service, urges team to uphold firm’s public trust and mission.
Femi Oladapo Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has officially stepped down from his position. He announced his resignation in a heartfelt message shared on his Facebook page on Saturday, citing personal and family commitments as the reason for his departure.
Soneye expressed deep appreciation for the support he received during his tenure and highlighted the achievements of the communications team over the past 20 months. His decision, he said, was driven by the need to prioritize his family and attend to other personal responsibilities that now require his full attention.
In his statement, Soneye thanked his colleagues for their professionalism and commitment, noting their collective efforts in shaping and promoting the public image of NNPCL. “Your role in building a vibrant and effective communications presence for our national energy company has been nothing short of invaluable,” he wrote.
He continued, “It has been a profound honor to serve both the Company and our country, and to contribute in my way to the ongoing transformation of NNPC Ltd. I remain a steadfast supporter and ambassador of NNPC Ltd. wherever I go.”
Soneye called on his former colleagues to continue their balanced and constructive communication in support of the company’s mission, emphasizing NNPCL’s strategic importance in Nigeria’s energy future.
His resignation comes just eight months after he was appointed to the role on October 18, 2023. NNPCL had introduced Soneye as part of its wider strategy to enhance brand penetration and drive strategic communications.
A seasoned journalist with a strong track record across global media platforms, Soneye brought a wealth of experience to NNPCL communications unit. Before joining the company, he had worked with top-tier publications in Nigeria, Australia, and the United States, both as a staff reporter and a freelance contributor.
In addition to his professional background, Soneye is a member of various respected media and journalism associations, including the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), the Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), and the Guild of Corporate Online Media Publishers (GOCOMP).
His appointment in 2023 came during the leadership of former NNPCL CEO Mele Kyari and was part of broader efforts to strengthen public engagement and stakeholder communication. At the time, his selection was seen as a strategic move to position NNPCL more effectively in both the local and global energy markets.
Under his leadership, the Corporate Communications department saw notable improvements in media relations, stakeholder engagement, and brand visibility. Soneye played a key role in amplifying the company’s transformation narrative following its transition into a limited liability company.
While his exit may be seen as a loss to NNPCL’s top management team, Soneye’s parting message has been received with admiration and well wishes from within and outside the organization. Many have commended him for his professionalism, humility, and dedication to service during his short but impactful stint.
Going forward, NNPCL will be expected to announce a new head for its Corporate Communications department as the company continues its efforts to reposition itself in the competitive global energy space.
