Meet Hussaini and Hassan Malami, identical twin brothers who have achieved a feat many thought impossible. They are among the successful recruits of the NNPC Tigers Class of 2026, having secured positions at the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation without connections.

The brothers’ recruitment has also challenged a common misconception that NNPC does not employ more than one person from the same family. Hussaini had always wanted to work at NNPC and immediately applied when recruitment opened. He also encouraged Hassan to submit an application. Hassan, however, was initially reluctant because he believed NNPC only hired one person per family and did not want to interfere with his brother’s ambition. His own career aspiration was to join the Nigerian Air Force and serve the country.

Hassan eventually applied close to the deadline following repeated encouragement from his twin. The brothers sat for the computer-based test on the same day but in different locations, with Hussaini taking his test in Sokoto and Hassan in Kaduna. After going through the recruitment process, including interviews, both brothers received employment letters on the same day.

Hussaini now works with NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NNPC E&P Limited), while Hassan is with NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company (NGIC). For Hassan, his new position has provided an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s gas industry. “I didn’t know there was a whole business dedicated to transporting gas,” Hassan said. “Now I’ve seen how gas powers plants and manufacturing companies…Hearing that gas is the future is one thing. Seeing how it is happening is another.”

The twins also urged young Nigerians interested in joining NNPC not to be discouraged by rumours about the recruitment process. “Ignore the rumours. You don’t need to know anybody at NNPC. Apply. Take the test and earn your place.” Their story demonstrates that being from the same family does not prevent multiple candidates from securing opportunities at NNPC, provided they meet the requirements and successfully navigate the recruitment process.

Hussaini, who works with NNPC Exploration & Production Limited (NNPC E&P Limited), said his experience has strengthened his long-standing ambition to contribute to society. He also hopes to return to his university as a guest lecturer and share his professional experience with students. “When I was in university, I only had one lecturer with field experience,” he said. “I want to share practical experience with students someday.”

Hassan identified with Execution Excellence, drawing from his background as a civil engineer. “I’m a civil engineer…I like seeing things come to life from concept to completion.” The twins have achieved a remarkable feat that challenges long-held misconceptions about NNPC recruitment.