Olufemi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), has emerged as the 2025 Spokesperson of the Year, an honour bestowed by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR).
Soneye stood out among a formidable group of nominees, including Shell’s Igo Weli, NIMASA’s Osagie Edward, Nigeria Police Force’s Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, and Sifax Group’s Olumuyiwa Akande.
The award ceremony, held at the National Spokespersons Award 2025, also saw Soneye clinch the Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas) category, continuing his remarkable streak that began in 2024. The NIPR adjudication panel described him as a “diligent strategist,” lauding his exceptional abilities in strategic communication, crisis management, and public engagement.
Presenting the award plaque, Hon. Joshua Audu Gana, Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Power, praised Soneye’s contributions to the PR landscape.
“On behalf of the NIPR Award Night 2025, I have the honour and privilege to present the Spokesperson of the Year 2025 to you. Congratulations,” Gana said.
In his acceptance speech, a visibly elated Soneye expressed gratitude to his team at NNPCL.
“This award is not just mine; it’s a reflection of the commitment, creativity, and passion of the entire NNPCL communications team,” he said. “I’m deeply honoured by this recognition and will continue to champion transparency and professionalism in our industry.”
The NIPR has announced it will celebrate Soneye throughout 2025 as the face of excellence in public relations.
