The Arewa Youth Council (AYC) has commended the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, for the launch of Nigeria’s first Smart Self-Service Filling Station in Abuja.
The Council also welcomed plans by NNPC Ltd. to establish between 50 and 70 similar modern energy hubs across the country within the next six months, describing the initiative as a major step towards transforming Nigeria’s downstream petroleum retail sector.
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In a statement signed by its Ambassador, Sidi Sani, and Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bilal Usman, the Council said the initiative would transform conventional filling stations into integrated energy and mobility hubs offering a range of digital and multi-energy services.
The Council noted that the Smart Station model incorporates self-service fuel dispensing through a mobile application, digital payment systems, electric vehicle charging points, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) facilities, planned compressed natural gas (CNG) services and solar-powered operations.
“This initiative marks a significant and progressive transformation of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum retail sector,” the Council stated.
According to the youth body, the new model would promote convenience, accuracy, transparency and round-the-clock accessibility for consumers.
It said the initiative would also provide practical benefits to motorists, commercial transporters and households through shorter queues, greater control over transactions and improved reliability in product delivery.
“Digital self-service options minimise disputes over quantity and enhance accountability,” the statement added.
The Council further noted that the integration of electric vehicle charging infrastructure would prepare the country for the gradual expansion of cleaner mobility options, while solar-powered operations could reduce dependence on the national grid.
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“These stations will deliver a more efficient, modern, and dignified retail experience for ordinary Nigerians,” it said.
At the national level, the Council said the programme could strengthen NNPC Ltd.’s retail network of about 900 outlets while creating opportunities in technology support, infrastructure maintenance and customer service.
It added that the transition to smart stations should not necessarily displace existing workers, but could lead to evolving job roles and new skill requirements across the sector.
“We specifically commend Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari for the strategic leadership that has made this possible,” the Council said.
It added that Ojulari had demonstrated commitment to performance, institutional reform and national interest since assuming office.
While acknowledging NNPC Ltd.’s activities in upstream operations, gas development and organisational efficiency, the Council said it was particularly highlighting the Smart Self-Service Station because of its potential direct impact on the daily lives of Nigerians.
The Council urged NNPC Ltd. to accelerate the nationwide rollout of the programme, with particular attention to northern and underserved communities.
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It also called on state governments, private-sector partners and technology providers to support the expansion and stressed the importance of continuous improvement in customer experience and structured training for personnel.
The Council congratulated Ojulari, the management and staff of NNPC Ltd. and NNPC Retail, as well as other partners involved in the initiative.