The Arewa Youth Council (AYC) has commended Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), for commissioning Nigeria's first Smart Self-Service Filling Station in Abuja. This development marks a significant transformation of the nation's downstream petroleum retail sector. The Council noted that traditional filling stations are being converted into integrated energy and mobility hubs that combine fuel dispensing with digital and multi-energy services.
The Smart Self-Service Station features self-service fuel dispensing through a mobile application, digital payment systems, electric vehicle charging points, liquefied petroleum gas facilities, and planned compressed natural gas services. The model prioritises convenience, accuracy, transparency, and round-the-clock accessibility. According to the AYC, this initiative represents a decisive shift toward technology-enabled energy retailing in Nigeria. The Council emphasised that the programme strengthens national energy security while modernising service delivery.
The Arewa Youth Council highlighted the direct benefits of the Smart Self-Service Station to citizens, including shorter queues, greater control over transactions, and more reliable product delivery. Motorists, commercial transporters, and households stand to gain from the new system. The Council noted that digital self-service options minimise disputes over quantity and enhance accountability. Additionally, the inclusion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure anticipates the gradual expansion of cleaner mobility options.
The programme carries strategic value by supporting the expansion and modernisation of NNPC Limited's retail network of about 900 outlets. The transformation is expected to deepen market presence, create new value chains, and generate opportunities in technology support, infrastructure maintenance, and customer service. Rather than displacing workers, the new model is expected to evolve existing roles and introduce new skill requirements.
The Arewa Youth Council commended Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari for his strategic leadership, which has made the Smart Self-Service Station initiative possible. Since assuming office, Ojulari 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 Council urged an accelerated and inclusive nationwide rollout of the Smart Self-Service Station programme, with deliberate attention to northern and underserved regions. They called on state governments, private sector partners, and technology providers 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.
The Arewa Youth Council congratulated Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, the Management and staff of NNPC Limited and NNPC Retail, and all collaborating partners on the launch of the Smart Self-Service Station. The Council emphasised that energy remains the lifeblood of economic activity and household wellbeing, making retail more efficient, transparent, and multi-dimensional a matter of national importance.
Key points
- The Arewa Youth Council praises Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari for launching Nigeria's first Smart Self-Service Filling Station.
- The Smart Self-Service Station features self-service fuel dispensing through a mobile application and digital payment systems.
- The programme aims to establish 50-70 modern energy hubs across Nigeria within the next six months.
