The Arewa Youth Council (AYC) has commended the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, for unveiling Nigeria’s first Smart Self-Service filling station in Abuja.
The group also lauded the plan to roll out 50 to 70 similar modern energy hubs nationwide in the next six months.
In a statement signed by Ambassador Sidi Sani and Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bilal Usman, the Council said the project signals a major reform in the country’s downstream petroleum retail sector.
According to the Council, the initiative will transform conventional filling stations into integrated energy and mobility hubs offering fuel dispensing alongside digital and multi-energy services.
“This initiative marks a significant and progressive transformation of Nigeria’s downstream petroleum retail sector,” the statement read. “By converting traditional filling stations into integrated energy and mobility hubs, NNPC Limited has introduced self-service fuel dispensing through a mobile application, digital payment systems, electric vehicle charging points, liquefied petroleum gas facilities, planned compressed natural gas services, solar-powered operations, and complementary customer amenities.
“The model prioritises convenience, accuracy, transparency, and round-the-clock accessibility. For Nigeria, the Smart Station programme represents a decisive shift toward technology-enabled energy retailing.”
The AYC said the programme will boost national energy security and modernize service delivery, positioning Nigeria to meet evolving consumer needs and embrace a multi-energy future comprising petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG, and electricity.
The Council noted that citizens will benefit directly from the innovation, with motorists, commercial drivers, and households enjoying reduced queues, more control over transactions, and improved efficiency in product delivery.
“Digital self-service options minimise disputes over quantity and enhance accountability. The inclusion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure anticipates the gradual expansion of cleaner mobility options, while solar power reduces operational dependence on the national grid. These stations will deliver a more efficient, modern, and dignified retail experience for ordinary Nigerians,” the statement added.
On a broader scale, the youth body said the programme has strategic importance, as it will support the upgrade and expansion of NNPCL’s retail network of about 900 outlets. It is expected to strengthen market presence, create new value chains, and open opportunities in technology support, infrastructure maintenance, and customer service.
The Council added that the new model will not displace workers but rather upgrade existing roles and create new skill requirements, leading to sustainable jobs in the sector.
“We specifically commend Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari for the strategic leadership that has made this possible. Since assuming office, he has demonstrated a consistent commitment to performance, institutional reform, and national interest. Under his direction, NNPC Limited has maintained focus on production growth, critical infrastructure delivery, commercial discipline, and customer-oriented transformation. The Smart Self-Service Station initiative is a tangible expression of that leadership — practical, measurable, and citizen-focused,” the Council stated.
While recognizing other achievements of NNPCL in upstream operations, gas development, and organizational efficiency, the group said it chose to highlight the downstream innovation due to its direct impact on Nigerians’ daily lives.
The AYC called for an accelerated and inclusive nationwide rollout, with special attention to northern and underserved communities. It urged state governments, private sector partners, and technology firms to support the expansion.
“Continuous refinement of the customer experience and structured training for personnel supporting the new systems will be essential for long-term success. We congratulate Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, the Management and staff of NNPC Limited and NNPC Retail, and all collaborating partners,” the statement concluded.
