A coalition of Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) announced plans to establish a situation room in Abuja to monitor the Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL)’s adherence to the presidential directive to sell crude oil to Dangote Refinery in Naira. This move follows a facility tour of the 650,000 bpd Dangote Refinery in Lagos by 28 CSO leaders.
The CSO leaders expressed concerns over NNPCL and regulatory agencies seemingly favoring petroleum product importation over utilizing local refinery capabilities. They believe the delays in operationalizing national refineries are deliberate to continue benefiting from importation.
During the tour, Solomon Adodo of Rise Up for A United Nigeria spoke on behalf of the CSOs, emphasizing the importance of the Dangote Refinery in addressing Nigeria’s forex challenges and reducing petroleum product prices. The CSOs plan to petition the Presidency to recognize Dangote Refinery as a national asset essential for reducing fuel importation.
Adodo criticized the government’s treatment of the Dangote Refinery, calling for collective action to ensure it operates optimally. He highlighted the readiness of the CSOs to defend the refinery and monitor compliance with the presidential directive to supply crude in Naira.
Dangote Industries Limited’s Vice-President, Devakumar Edwin, welcomed the CSO leaders, describing the refinery as a value-adding facility crucial for reducing crude exports and finished product imports. He underscored the company’s commitment to investing in Nigeria and contributing to the national economy through job creation and increased domestic production.
The CSOs plan to advocate for the government’s support of the refinery, emphasizing its potential to stabilize the domestic fuel market and enhance economic growth.
