In every great institution, there are stories that go beyond boardrooms, contracts, and policies—stories that reflect the human spirit at its purest. One such story is that of Patience Morgan, whose journey with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) spans nearly three decades and embodies resilience, grace, and gratitude.
Patience first walked through the doors of NNPC in the late 1990s as a 20-year-old tea lady—young, eager, and full of hope. At the time, the iconic NNPC Towers had barely opened its doors. “There were no desks, chairs or furniture, and we would stand all day… but I liked the work,” she recalls with a nostalgic smile.
She would go on to become the very first tea lady at NNPC, training hundreds more who followed in her footsteps. Along the way, she collected memories that today sound almost unbelievable—like her initial fear of lifts, having never seen one before. Yet, as with so much in her story, fear quickly gave way to curiosity and courage. Soon, she was riding the lifts for fun, laughing at her own nervousness.
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Much like those lift rides, Patience’s career has been a story of highs and lows but mostly highs, as she fondly reflects, crediting God’s grace and the NNPC staff who believed in her potential.
Her life changed significantly in 2005 when she was assigned to serve on the prestigious 11th floor, the executive wing of the Towers. There, she has faithfully served for nearly two decades and under the leadership of 15 Group Chief Executive Officers (GCEOs).
Yet, beyond all these, what stands out in Patience’s narrative is gratitude. Mid-conversation, she often breaks into heartfelt prayers, insisting that God used NNPC to transform her life. “I came here as a young, single girl. I got married here to a pastor…this job and the grace of God helped me train all my five children.”
Her pride is evident as she lists her children’s achievements: three already university graduates and two still in secondary school. She attributes her determination to give them the best education to the values she observed daily at NNPC; patience, discipline and hard work. With her trademark smile, she adds; “My children are brilliant and by God’s grace, one of them will work for NNPC.”
When asked what brings her the greatest joy in her job today, her answer is simple: “The people. The kind, hardworking people.” It is a reminder that institutions thrive not only on policies but also on relationships.
On this her 48th birthday, Patience arrived at the Towers in a lovely outfit, carrying a cake to share with friends. What she didn’t expect was a providential encounter with NNPC’s current GCEO, Bayo Bashir Ojulari, who, upon hearing it was her birthday, insisted on a photo to mark the moment. It was a small but profound gesture—an affirmation of the values of recognition and humanity that NNPC embodies.
As the conversation wrapped up, Patience had just one request: a chance to say “thank you” to the GCEO on video. That simple, heartfelt and humbling message captured the essence of her story.
Patience Morgan is more than NNPC’s tea lady, she is a living testament to perseverance, faith and the quiet but powerful role of those who serve with heart.
Happy birthday to Patience. Here’s to many more years of health, joy and impact.
Culled and edited
