Identical Nigerian twins, Hussaini and Hassan Malami, have secured jobs with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) as members of the NNPC Tigers Class of 2026, after a misconception nearly prevented one of them from applying.
According to a profile by NNPC Limited’s Senior Communications Advisor, Adaobi Oniwinde, Hussaini had long wanted to work for the energy company and applied when recruitment opened. He subsequently encouraged his twin brother, Hassan, to submit an application.
Hassan was initially reluctant, believing NNPC recruited only one person from a family and fearing that his application could affect his brother’s chances. He was also considering a career in the Nigerian Air Force and already worked in the banking sector.
However, with the application deadline approaching and persistent encouragement from Hussaini, Hassan eventually applied.
The brothers took the computer-based recruitment test on the same day, although at different locations, with Hussaini sitting for his in Sokoto and Hassan in Kaduna.
Both progressed through the recruitment process, including interviews, and received their employment letters on the same day.
Hussaini said he discovered his offer after midnight and immediately wanted to share the news with his family.
Hassan, meanwhile, learnt of his successful application after seeing the news in the family’s WhatsApp group the following morning.
The twins have since taken up different roles within NNPC. Hussaini joined NNPC Exploration & Production Limited, while Hassan joined NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company.
For Hassan, the new role has provided a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s gas industry, including the business of transporting gas for power generation and manufacturing.
Although he initially hoped to pursue military service, Hassan now sees his role in the energy sector as another way of contributing to national development. He said he still hopes to explore military service before reaching the age limit in 2030.
Hussaini said his experience at NNPC has strengthened his desire to contribute to Nigeria’s energy sector. He also hopes to become a guest lecturer at his university and share practical industry experience with students.
The twins identified different NNPC culture transformation pillars that align with their work philosophies. Hussaini selected Enterprise First, while Hassan, a civil engineer, chose Execution Excellence, citing his preference for taking projects from concept to completion.
The brothers urged young Nigerians interested in working with NNPC to ignore rumours surrounding its recruitment process and take advantage of opportunities when they arise.
“You don’t need to know anybody at NNPC. Apply. Take the test and earn your place,” they said.
