Tell us about yourself (Name, Department, Current role and Date you joined BOG
Gift Osudue, Admin. Admin Officer. 3rd of May 2005
Tell us about what you felt when you got your offer letter.
I was thrilled and deeply appreciated the opportunity. It gave me a sense of accomplishment and motivation to embark on a journey of continuous learning, growth and impact within the company. BOG was indeed still in its formative years when I joined, but between then and now, not only has the organisation grown to become a household name in our industry, I have also evolved, and I am grateful to God for giving me the opportunity to play my part in the BOG story.
What project, moment, or achievement are you most proud of?
I obtained a B.SC. (Hons) Finance& Banking at the University of Port Harcourt in addition to what I have already (Business Administration & Management, HND). I am a member of the Associate of the Chartered Institute of Administration (ACIA).
I was recognised as the Bell Person of the Month and Most Innovative Staff of the Quarter at the same time, September 2019. One of the company’s values is “can and will do attitude”. There was an issue on a project, I launched myself into it with determination to help solve the problem. I succeeded and I received two awards for this. When the Standards Organisation of Nigeria(SON) confirmed that BOG had fulfilled the requirements for Integrated Management System (IMS) Certification, I was excited because I was part of the team that made this happen. The ‘can-and-will-do spirit’ running in the veins of BOG has been, to me, a strong force pushing the company forward. It has also imparted me greatly. We need to keep this alive.
When BOG celebrated its 10th anniversary, the company paid for the flight tickets for all staff members in Port Harcourt. I can never forget it in a hurry; it was my first time ever in Lagos and the first time on a plane. Team bonding sessions are always fun, especially when the directors are around. Also, when we have one-on-one sessions with the CEO, he gives us his full attention; it is his consistency and dedication for me.
Did you think you will be here for 20 years when you first started?
When I first started at BOG, I was focused on learning, contributing, and making the most of the opportunity. I didn’t necessarily anticipate being here for 20 years, but looking back, I can see how the organisation’s values, the dynamic challenges, and the supportive environment kept me both engaged and inspired. It’s been a fulfilling journey, and I’m proud of the growth and impact I’ve experienced along the way.
What are the most important lessons you’ve learned at BOG?
Over the years at BOG, I’ve learned that adaptability and commitment to continuous improvement are vital in an ever-evolving environment. I’ve come to deeply appreciate the value of collaboration; some of the most impactful solutions came from diverse teams working together. I’ve also learned that leadership isn’t about titles; it’s about accountability, empathy, and empowering others to succeed. These lessons have shaped both my professional approach and personal growth. Also, staying curious.
How has working at BOG shaped your career and personal development?
Working at BOG has been instrumental in shaping both my career and my personal development. Professionally, it’s given me the platform to grow across roles, take on complex challenges, and develop leadership capabilities I hadn’t yet envisioned when I started. On a personal level, it’s nurtured qualities like resilience, emotional intelligence, and adaptability. The experiences and mentorship I’ve received here have made me more self-aware, more collaborative, and more purpose-driven in the way I approach both work and life.
Have you had any mentors or colleagues who made a lasting impact on you? Tell us about them.
Dr. Kayode Thomas. I refer to him as a man of “professional swag and corporate excellence”. He is a true source of inspiration, an exceptional example of professionalism, focus, and drive. His ability to remain organised, resilient, and result-oriented consistently motivates those around him. He is someone who not only sets ambitious goals but pursues them with unwavering determination. His commitment to building capacity and empowering others has created a culture of excellence within the organisation. With his deep knowledge, strategic mindset, and dedication to purpose, he continues to set a powerful example of leadership that motivates me every day.
Dr. Azuka Onyia. She stands out as a powerhouse of financial expertise and elegant leadership. Her intelligence and steady support have inspired many across the organisation. Beyond the numbers, she leads with kindness, grace, and a deep commitment to family and values, qualities that set her apart as not just a great leader but a truly remarkable woman of excellence. She is a seasoned finance professional with a strategic mind and a very generous spirit; she exemplifies what it means to lead with both precision and heart. Her ability to support others with timeliness and empathy continues to make a lasting impact across the organisation.
Mrs. Yemi Gbeja. My mentor exemplifies tenacity of purpose and exceptional leadership. Her unwavering focus, intelligence, and generosity of spirit have not only guided my personal growth but also inspired many around her. With a kind heart and a naturally jovial demeanour, she leads with both strength and warmth, making her a standout example of mentorship and a role model truly worthy of emulation.
Ayobami Oloyede. Her leadership is the definition of leading from the front. She’s talented, intelligent, and always solution-focused, guiding her team with clarity and care.
Her motivation is deeply felt; it lifts you and makes you want to perform at your best. And it’s not only empowering but deeply personal; it reminds you that she sees potential in you and expects you to rise to it. She’s taught me the value of swift, effective problem- solving and the importance of making sure people understand not just the outcome, but the process. She also ensures you understand both the why and the how. Her influence has left a lasting imprint on the way I show up, lead and contribute.
What has kept you motivated and committed for two decades?
What’s kept me motivated and committed over the past 20 years is a combination of purpose, growth, and people. Work at BOG has consistently presented new challenges and opportunities to learn, which has fueled my curiosity and drive. But equally important are the relationships I’ve built, working alongside dedicated, talented colleagues have made the experience meaningful. Feeling that my contributions matter, both to the organisation and to those I work with, has been a powerful source of motivation.
What does the BOG culture mean to you?
To me, BOG culture represents collaboration and continuous growth. It’s a place where people are encouraged to take ownership, support one another, and pursue excellence with humility. Over the years, this culture has shaped how I approach challenges, with resilience and openness and how I lead with empathy and accountability. It’s more than just a workplace; it’s a community that brings out the best in people. It’s an environment that values people, progress, and long-term success.
Which of BOG’s core values resonates with you and why?
The ‘can-and-will-do’ attitude resonates deeply with me because it aligns with how I approach challenges proactively, positively, and with determination. Throughout my time at BOG, I’ve encountered situations that required resilience, creative thinking, and a willingness to step outside my comfort zone. This value has empowered me to see obstacles as opportunities and to lead by example when the stakes are high. It’s not just a mindset—it’s a culture of possibility, and it’s played a key role in both my personal growth and the success of the teams I’ve been part of. I upheld that value during the Chevron Agbami Minox Debottlenecking project.
- ‘Result Orientation’ resonates deeply with me because I believe that meaningful progress stems from setting clear goals and holding myself accountable for outcomes. I thrive in environments where performance is measured not just by effort, but by tangible impact. This value aligns with my personal drive to continuously improve, stay focused under pressure, and deliver high-quality results, even in the face of challenges. It motivates me to prioritise what truly matters, adapt quickly, and contribute to the broader success of the team and organisation.
- Loyalty and commitment resonate strongly with me because they reflect how I choose to show up, not just in my work, but in my relationships and responsibilities. At BOG, I’ve seen firsthand how sustained dedication builds trust, fosters resilience, and contributes to long-term success. Staying committed, especially through challenging seasons, has deepened my sense of purpose and strengthened the bonds within my team. For me, it’s not just about tenure, it’s about consistently aligning my actions with the vision and standing by the organisation through change and growth.
- Ethics and integrity resonate deeply with me because they form the foundation of trust, both within a team and with the people we serve. At BOG, upholding these values has meant making principled decisions, even when they’re not the easiest or most convenient. I’ve always believed that doing the right thing consistently builds credibility and strengthens relationships over time. Living by this value has helped me earn the respect of colleagues, navigate complex situations with clarity, and contribute to a culture where transparency and accountability are non-negotiable.
What’s one value or principle that has guided your work ethic throughout your career at BOG? Dedication has been the cornerstone of my work ethic throughout my career at BOG. I approach every task with a strong sense of purpose and a commitment to seeing it through, no matter the challenges. This mindset has helped me stay resilient and consistently deliver results, even under pressure.
If you could go back in time, what advice would you give your younger self at the start of your BOG journey? I’d say, “Don’t put the cart before the horse”. Stay open, stay grounded, and trust the process. There will be setbacks and breakthroughs, both are vital. Focus on relationships as much as results, and don’t underestimate the value of consistency. Believe in the vision, be patient and resilient, these are crucial in the journey.
What’s one piece of company history or a “BOG story” that newer staff should know about? One BOG story I always find inspiring is the successful commissioning of Bell Oil & Gas Pipe Threading and Valve Assembly Plants situated at the Lekki Free Zone Enterprise in Lagos State. The remarkable thing about the achievement is that we did it against all odds. This is a true reference point. And evidence that if the mind can conceive it, it can be done. This event not only strengthened the company’s foundations but also set a precedent for how we approach challenges and growth today. Understanding this story helps newer employees appreciate the values that drive BOG’s success and their role in shaping its future.
Looking back, what are you most grateful for in your 20-year journey with BOG? I am most grateful to God for His hand of Grace upon my life. For the incredible opportunities to grow, lead, and make a meaningful impact. The experiences, challenges, and collaborations have shaped me into the professional I am today. Also, I am deeply grateful for the relationships I’ve built, the mentorship I’ve received, and the chance to contribute to BOG’s success.
What would you like to be remembered for? I would love to be remembered for my ability to drive progress, empowering others to grow, commitment to excellence, solving challenges, a legacy of positive change, adding value and inspiring others to excel.
