Investigations by The Guardian revealed that some salary hikes reached up to 50%, with allowances also seeing substantial boosts, some reportedly backdated. 

A senior staff member, speaking anonymously, stated that Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari approved the increases to retain and attract top talent.As of April 2025, NNPCL’s workforce comprised 5,077 men (80.8%) and 1,203 women (19.2%). 

The company funds its staff salaries through a 30% management fee, legalized under the Petroleum Industry Act, totaling N25.3 billion as reported in its August 2025 presentation to the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). 

The salary adjustments have reportedly lured employees from other well-paying federal agencies to NNPCL.

Defending the raises, an NNPCL source argued that the adjustments were necessary to maintain competitiveness in the energy sector. 

“As a responsible employer, NNPC Limited strives to maintain a competitive salary structure that reflects prevailing realities in the energy industry,” the source told The Guardian. 

They noted that, despite the hikes, NNPCL’s compensation remains mid-range compared to global oil and gas standards. 

The source cited inflationary pressures and multiple currency devaluations over the past two years as key reasons for the upward review, warning that without these adjustments, the company risks high staff turnover and operational instability.