Director General of the Confederation of All Progressive Congress (APC) Support Groups, Engr. Prof. Muhammad Kailani criticised calls for removing Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, suggesting monopolistic interests drive them.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Kailani accused those pushing for Kyari's removal of attempting to undermine his achievements in the oil sector.

He claimed these individuals are the same actors who have monopolised other industries, including cement, and now seek to impose similar practices in oil and gas.

"This protest is a clear attempt by monopolistic forces to derail the reforms Kyari has initiated in Nigeria's oil industry," Kailani said, describing the calls as "misleading" and masking the actual challenges in the sector.

He urged Nigerians, especially the youth, to back Kyari's reforms, emphasising the need for "constructive dialogue and unity" in addressing genuine industry issues.

Kailani commended Kyari's focus on energy security and economic stability and credited his leadership with bringing transparency, efficiency, and accountability to the sector.

He added that Kyari's achievements underscore President Bola Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda and his dedication to appointing capable leaders.

"Mele Kyari's tenure has brought unprecedented progress to Nigeria's petroleum sector," Kailani said, noting initiatives such as Kyari's TAPE agenda in regions like the Upper Benue Trough and Gongola Basin, which have bolstered development.

He pointed to the 2021 Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), which has transformed NNPCL from a loss-making entity to a profitable one, as a testament to Kyari's effective leadership.

Director General for broad support from the oil and gas industry, media, and public, Kailani urged stakeholders to rally behind Kyari's initiatives and the ongoing reforms at NNPCL.