Excellence is certainly a denominator among people, even when all of them are brilliant and accomplished. This feature is one of the defining attributes of the boss of Matrix Energy, Adisa Aliu. It is also because of it that he has maintained a good relationship with so many high-profile Nigerians, including the Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari.
Aliu’s relationship with Kyari has been shown time and again to eclipse the typical association between people in the same industry. Owing to the Matrix Energy boss’ accomplishments, it makes sense that Kyari would recognise him. However, their ties are stronger than mere friendship, reaching the level of the NNPC boss watching out for him.
With Matrix Energy, Aliu has been able to climb into the stratum of businessmen capable of calling the shots in the oil and gas industry. One reason for this is his ingenuity, rich management experience, and a good eye for competent team leaders. Another reason is that Aliu has people like Kyari that he seeks advice from before making important decisions.
During the era of President Muhammadu Buhari, Aliu was described as one of the corporate progenies of the federal government. It was not because of anything tribalistic as Aliu was born in Osun State, far from the the-ruling north. It was simply because Aliu knew how to recognise opportunities, culminating in genuine relationships with people in power.
Nevertheless, Kyari is one of Aliu’s strongest supporters in the contemporary. Given the NNPC man’s expertise, it is unlikely that more than a handful of oil and gas giants can surpass Aliu in terms of accomplishments. Kyari is not one to use his influence unreasonably, but there is no constitutional regulation against his chummy relationship with Aliu.
Why, then, would Aliu joke with Kyari, someone he considers a mentor? With such a vision, Aliu will continue to do well, meeting the expectations of good-intentioned people like Kyari.
