The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has crowned Mr. Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), as the 2025 Spokesperson of the Year. The award, one of the most esteemed accolades in Nigeria’s public relations sector, was presented on Wednesday in Abuja at the National Spokespersons Awards 2025.

Emerging victorious from a field of highly respected contenders, Soneye stood out among prominent nominees including Shell Petroleum’s Igo Weli, the Nigeria Police Force’s ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, SIFAX Group’s Olumuyiwa Akande, and Mr. Osagie Edward of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA).

From Sectoral Standout to National Honours

Soneye’s path to this national recognition began in the “Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas)” category, where he once again demonstrated exceptional competence and strategic communication prowess. In that category, he outperformed Shell’s Igo Weli and Chief Chinedu Ukadike, spokesperson for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN).

This isn’t his first taste of success. In 2024, Soneye had already made waves when he clinched the same oil and gas communication title, beating out Shell Nigeria’s Michael Adande and Dr. Johnson Nkwocha of Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Limited. This consistency in excellence helped propel him to the top prize this year.

Recognizing his continued impact, the NIPR described Soneye as both “diligent” and “a strategist” during the award announcement, signaling his prominence not only within the oil and gas sector but also across Nigeria’s wider public relations landscape.

A Meticulous Selection Process

The rigorous nature of the award process added further weight to Soneye’s recognition. The NIPR’s Adjudication Committee, chaired by Dr. Shaibu Hussein, conducted a detailed evaluation of each nominee’s achievements, communication strategies, and public engagement. Representing Hussein at the ceremony, committee member Lami Tuiaka emphasized that the selection involved experienced communication scholars, PR professionals, and media veterans.

“Our committee worked tirelessly to review the nominations, assess performances, and deliberate on the winner. We carefully examined each nomination, considering communication skills, crisis management, and overall impact,” she said.

This meticulous evaluation underscored the significance of the award, highlighting that Soneye’s recognition was not only well-deserved but hard-won.

National Recognition and Celebration

The award was formally presented to Soneye by Hon. Joshua Audu Ghana, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Power, who chaired the award ceremony. While presenting the plaque, Hon. Ghana lauded Soneye’s remarkable journey and praised his contribution to shaping public understanding through strategic communication.

“On behalf of the NIPR Award Night 2025, I have the honour and privilege to present the Spokesperson of the Year 2025. Please join me in celebrating our latest spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, whom we will honour throughout 2025,” he declared to an enthusiastic audience.

The announcement was met with thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the crowd, including leading figures from Nigeria’s communications, energy, and government sectors.

A Humble Acceptance

In his acceptance speech, Soneye dedicated the award to the entire communications team at NNPC Ltd., acknowledging their collective efforts in advancing transparency, trust, and public engagement. His remarks reflected the humility and team spirit that have defined his professional demeanor over the years.

“We are all happy, and I am deeply honoured to receive this award tonight from NIPR. This award reflects the dedication of our entire team, and we thank NIPR for all they continue to do,” he said, clearly moved by the recognition.

His brief but heartfelt words captured the gratitude and collective pride of the state-owned oil company’s communications department, whose efforts have helped shape public perception amid an evolving energy sector.

Strategic Communications in a Transforming Oil Sector

Soneye’s recognition comes at a time when the oil and gas industry, particularly in Nigeria, faces increasing demands for transparency, public engagement, and digital transformation. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has undergone significant structural reforms in recent years following its transition into a limited liability company in 2021 under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). Amid this transformation, effective communication has played a vital role in bridging the gap between corporate strategy and public understanding.

As the public face of NNPC Ltd., Soneye has successfully navigated challenging terrain, including policy reforms, fuel subsidy debates, market deregulation, and global energy transition narratives. His leadership in managing these complex communications landscapes has not only enhanced the company’s image but also positioned him as a thought leader in public relations.

Reactions Across the Industry

Reactions to the announcement have been overwhelmingly positive. Industry stakeholders and PR professionals have praised Soneye’s consistency, strategic foresight, and ability to communicate technical issues with clarity and impact.

A senior official at NIPR, who asked not to be named, noted that “Soneye is a rare blend of technical know-how and media fluency. He doesn’t just issue statements—he shapes narratives that build trust, which is what true public relations is about.”

Colleagues from other sectors also acknowledged the significance of his win, particularly in light of the high-caliber competitors in this year’s contest. His ability to outshine respected spokespersons from other major organizations like Shell and the Nigeria Police underscores his exceptional influence.

Looking Ahead

As NIPR’s Spokesperson of the Year, Soneye will represent excellence in communication throughout 2025. He is expected to play a central role in NIPR initiatives, panel discussions, and mentorship programs aimed at elevating the practice of public relations across Nigeria.

His victory also sends a powerful message to corporate communicators about the value of consistency, strategic clarity, and adaptability in a rapidly changing media environment. For upcoming practitioners in public relations, Soneye’s journey serves as a blueprint for how to rise through professional excellence and sustained performance.

In winning this award, Olufemi Soneye has not only affirmed his standing as one of Nigeria’s most influential communicators but has also strengthened the legacy of NNPC Ltd. as a company committed to transparency, professionalism, and public trust.