By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a journey that harks back to its origins, NP-Sierra Leone Limited (NP-SL Ltd), a dynamic player in the import and marketing of petroleum products, remains a stalwart in Sierra Leone’s energy sector. Founded over two decades ago, this remarkable enterprise owes its existence to a dedicated group of former British Petroleum (BP) employees who acquired 60% of the Government’s shares in 1996, thus initiating its indigenous ownership.
The genesis of this transition was influenced by the World Bank’s counsel to privatize, prompting the sale of the majority of Government-held shares. With 55% of shares acquired through the end-of-service benefits of BP workers and an additional 5% offered to all other employees, NP-SL Ltd emerged as a wholly Sierra Leonean-owned entity.
In the years since its inception, NP-SL Ltd has solidified its position as the premier oil marketing company in the nation, excelling in the importation and marketing of various petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, gas, and lubricants—among them, the renowned Castrol oil.
The company’s commitment to uninterrupted supply is unwavering, except in instances of unforeseen circumstances, often beyond its control, where it has taken swift measures to mitigate delays and restore the supply chain to normalcy.
A cornerstone of NP-SL Ltd’s philosophy lies in prioritizing exceptional customer care to ensure customer satisfaction. This ethos extends to the company’s well-designed and spacious Filling Stations, featuring vibrant yellow and green aesthetics, and even integrated shopping marts, providing essential items and a space for relaxation and socializing.
To enhance transparency and align with international standards, NP-SL Ltd has heavily invested in calibrated pumping machines that precisely dispense fuel, assuring buyers of accurate quantities.
Remarkably, NP-SL Ltd has demonstrated its dedication to Sierra Leone’s Local Content Policy, making a significant impact by offering employment opportunities to Sierra Leoneans, thereby contributing to poverty reduction.
The NP Gas, known for its speed, efficiency, and eco-friendliness in cooking applications, has gained substantial popularity. NP-SL Ltd’s strategic approach to offering gas alongside petrol, diesel, and lubricants in various cylinder sizes ensures accessibility and convenience for customers.
One of the company’s latest innovations, the NP Smart Card, has taken the market by storm. This ingenious card allows users to load funds and seamlessly utilize calibrated pumping machines to dispense fuel, displaying both the quantity and price, offering a secure and efficient solution that has garnered widespread acclaim.
Mohamed Jusu, a civil servant, extolled the virtues of the NP Smart Card, stating, “NP Smart Card works well, and since I have been using it, I always procure fuel for my car and generator in record time. Using it, there are many benefits one can derive.”
Expanding its reach beyond Sierra Leone’s borders, NP-SL Ltd operates efficiently in Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and The Gambia, contributing to job creation and Government revenue through tax payments.
From its humble beginnings, NP-SL Ltd has evolved into a towering presence in Sierra Leone’s petroleum landscape. With an extensive network of Filling Stations across the country, Management of the company remains resolute in its pursuit of continued growth and excellence in the energy sector.
