Dr. Thomas Ogungbangbe’s Journey from Industry Leader to Community Champion

Dr. Thomas Olaleye Ogungbangbe is a name that resonates with respect and achievement within Nigeria’s Oil & Gas industry, particularly in the aviation fuel sector. As Chairman of the Aviation Fuel Marketers Association of Nigeria, his efforts have shaped the industry, improved its standards, and brought attention to the need for sustainable practices. But Dr. Ogungbangbe’s story isn’t just about corporate titles or industry awards. His roots, values, and drive to give back have guided him to where he stands today—a visionary leader whose work impacts both Nigeria’s fuel sector and its communities.

Beginning his career at Pfizer Nigeria, Dr. Ogungbangbe moved from pharmaceuticals into banking before eventually finding his place in the Oil & Gas industry. The early years were crucial as they instilled in him the discipline and dedication that he would later bring to aviation fuel management. In the Oil & Gas industry, he quickly moved up the ranks, holding key positions in top companies like Chevron Oil and Conoil. These roles exposed him to the challenges of oil production, refining, and distribution and sparked his determination to drive change and innovation in Nigeria’s energy sector.

One of Dr. Ogungbangbe’s most notable contributions was changing the traditional methods used to measure and distribute fuel. Under his leadership, the sector shifted to using Bulk Road Vehicles (BRVs) for oil discharge, which introduced more accuracy into the process and reduced wastage. “This method gives a clear and precise account of oil volumes, something that wasn’t possible with old methods,” he explained. His forward-thinking approach landed him a spot on the Federal Government’s six-member committee on Aviation Fuel Pricing, where he contributed to shaping policies that now guide the sector.

But Dr. Ogungbangbe’s impact reaches far beyond the boardroom. Education and healthcare are causes close to his heart, and he has backed up his passion with action. Through his company, CITA Energies, he funded a $100,000 research project at the University of Ilorin to study aviation fuel contaminants and supported mass deworming initiatives for Nigerian children under a program by Pfizer. “I’ve always believed that the future lies in building a strong foundation for our young people,” he said. True to this belief, he has funded scholarships for Ph.D. students from Osun State, making education accessible for those with the potential but lacking the means.

For his contributions, Dr. Ogungbangbe has received numerous awards, including the Oil & Gas Personality Leader of the Year by BusinessDay and the Icon of Societal Development Award from the West Africa Student Union Parliament. However, he sees these recognitions as a reminder of the responsibility he bears to continue pushing for progress in his field. Today, his company, CITA Energies, boasts Nigeria’s largest network of aviation fuel infrastructure, operating across 16 states.

Looking to the future, Dr. Ogungbangbe champions the push for biofuels and other sustainable aviation fuel options. In a sector historically dominated by traditional oil, he is one of the voices advocating for a shift towards cleaner and more sustainable alternatives. He’s known for bringing people together—airlines, airports, and regulatory bodies alike—to find better, more efficient ways of doing business in a way that prioritizes safety and sustainability.

Beyond his industry influence, Dr. Ogungbangbe has also set his sights on leadership in public service. Inspired by the pressing need for development and good governance, he has announced plans to contest for the Senate seat of Osun East Senatorial District. “I believe that leaders from the private sector have a unique perspective and can offer solutions to the challenges we face as a nation,” he shared, voicing his desire to bring the discipline and rigor of the business world into the realm of public policy.

Through his career and community initiatives, Dr. Ogungbangbe represents the spirit of a true public servant—a leader who values his roots and is committed to making a difference for future generations. As he looks to expand his impact in both business and politics, his story serves as an inspiration to many, showing that success is measured not just by personal achievements but by the positive changes one can make in society.