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From Oilfields to Nation-Building: Dr. Thomas Ogungbangbe’s Vision for Economic and Political Renewal

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 17th, 2025.

In this interview, Dr. Thomas Olaleye Ogungbangbe, a highly accomplished leader in the oil and gas sector and Chairman of the Aviation Fuel Marketers Association of Nigeria, shares insights into his remarkable journey. From his early upbringing in a family that championed education to his illustrious academic background in prestigious institutions, Yusuf Ebiti brings the excerpts:

*Can you share some insights into your early life, including your upbringing and educational journey?*

Growing up in a family that valued education and hard work, I was encouraged to pursue my interests in science and technology. My educational journey took me through prestigious institutions, including Oxford Princeton Programme, Harvard Business School, Saïd Business School, Imperial College London, University of Ilorin, Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, and Babcock University, to name a few. These experiences shaped my passion for the energy sector, particularly aviation fuel.

*What inspired you to pursue a career in the oil and gas sector, and what were some key milestones that defined your path to where you are today?*

My career in oil and gas was inspired by a desire to contribute to Nigeria’s economic growth. The oil and gas sector is a significant contributor to the nation’s GDP, and I wanted to play a role in its development. With a passion for science and technology, I was fascinated by the technical aspects of oil and gas production, refining, and distribution. Key milestones include working with multinational companies such as Chevron Oil (via MRS) and National Oil (via Conoil), leading teams, contributing to policy development, and holding executive positions in large-scale oil and gas companies. These roles provided opportunities to drive business growth and strategy while advocating for sustainable practices.

*As Chairman of the Aviation Fuel Marketers Association of Nigeria, what are the most significant challenges you have encountered in your career, and how did you navigate them?*

As Chairman of the Aviation Fuel Marketers Association of Nigeria, I have faced challenges such as infrastructure constraints, policy inconsistencies, and pluralisation. I navigated these by engaging stakeholders, advocating for policy reforms, and promoting industry collaboration.

*Can you describe a particularly memorable experience or achievement in your career that has had a lasting impact on you?*

Among many memorable experiences, leading a team to develop a sustainable aviation fuel project stands out. I introduced meter discharge of oil using Bulk Road Vehicles (BRVs) instead of mechanical methods, resulting in more accurate volume measurements compared to the traditional ullage method. Additionally, I served as a member of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s six-man Ministerial Committee on Aviation Fuel Pricing and Product Availability.

*Beyond your professional achievements, can you tell us about any philanthropic work or contributions you have made, particularly those that are close to your heart?*

Benevolence is second nature to me; I am passionate about giving back. My focus has been on supporting education and healthcare initiatives, particularly in rural areas. I was a frontline advocate in the mass deworming programs for children under the Helminthiasis Elimination Lower Cost Partnership (HELP) by Pfizer, implemented in several Nigerian states. Through my organization, CITA Energies, I provided a $100,000 research grant to the University of Ilorin for a study on microbial contamination in aviation fuel, published by Lambert Academic, Germany. I also empowered five Babcock University students from Osun State with Ph.D. scholarship grants. These contributions are close to my heart, as I strongly believe in giving back to the community that has supported my growth as an individual and an enterprise.

*How do you integrate your passion for giving back into your professional life, and what motivates you to support the causes you do?*

I integrate my passion for giving back into my professional life by supporting initiatives that align with my values and expertise. This includes volunteering industry expertise and supporting education, healthcare, and economic empowerment programs. Within my organization, CITA Energies, I advocate for sustainable practices and community development. My contributions include sponsoring the construction of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport Road Network at a cost of N300,000,000 in 2022, donating 20,000 vials of pain relief injections to the Osun State Government in 2016, providing 2,000 units of food palliatives across all LGAs in Osun State via NULGE in 2018, clearing the tax debts of all 145 APC candidates from Osun East in 2024, donating refueling kits to the Nigerian Air Force in 2017, supplying electric transformers to Lagos and Abuja airports, and making cash donations to communities in Port Harcourt and Warri. These efforts stem from a desire to create positive change, reflect personal values, recognize the industry’s social impact, inspire others, and act from a place of gratitude and humility. By integrating my passion for giving back into my professional life, I aim to create a positive impact that extends beyond my immediate sphere of influence.

*To be continued*

Signed

Ogungbangbe Media Front (OMF)