The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, have agreed to collaborate on the development of energy inter-conversion and storage as a catalyst for Nigeria’s economic development and transformation.
The Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Mele Kyari, and the Vice Chancellor of the University, Lawal Suleiman Bilbis, made the commitment when members of the University Council, led by the University’s Pro-Chancellor, Justice Pearl Enejere (rtd) visited the NNPC headquarters in Abuja.
Welcoming the University Management to the NNPC, Kyari challenged the university management to always champion the development and transformation of their local communities through research and innovation.
“It is high time universities connected to the world. It is also high time researches left the drawing board and come to work for the communities. Let us see how some of your abilities can be put to use for the common good of us all,” the NNPC GMD stated.
He said the Corporation was ready to collaborate with the university in the area of energy transition and renewable energy, which were key features of the Corporation’s new business focus.
On his part, the Vice Chancellor, Lawal Bilbis, called on both parties to serve as catalyst for development, to provide lasting solutions to nation’s energy problems.
He commended the NNPC GMD on his stewardship so far, especially in the area of transparency and accountability, which he said have engendered a positive transformation in the Corporation and the Nigerian oil and gas industry at large.
“NNPC is being transformed, we are seeing the NNPC of our dream. I believe if other sectors of the economy are doing like NNPC, Nigeria would work for all of us,” the Vice Chancellor said.
