Nigerians must unite to ensure Dangote Refinery’s success, says Atiku

• On June 4, Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest person, said some international oil companies (IOCs) are struggling to supply crude to his refinery.
• On July 15, Gbenga Komolafe, NUPRC CEO, described the claim as “erroneous” citing Petroleum Industry Act provisions.
• Days after, Dangote Industries Limited insisted IOCs were frustrating its crude feedstock purchase request.

Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president, has urged Nigerians to take a collective stance in supporting the Dangote refinery project.

The former vice president also warned against any attempts to impede its progress.

Within Nigeria understands that his statement comes amid a conflict between the refinery and Nigerian regulatory authorities.

Recall that On Thursday, the Dangote refinery said the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) has been reluctant to enforce the domestic crude supply obligation (DCSO) to ensure that it receives its full crude requirement.

In response, the NUPRC denied the claim, stating that it facilitated the supply of 29 million barrels of crude oil to the refinery between January and June.

However, the Dangote refinery said it has not received the 29 million barrels of crude.

Speaking on the issue on Saturday, Atiku said the Dangote Refinery project is a significant investment that is “positioned to meet our energy and forex needs”.

The former vice-president also expressed concern over potential sabotage of the project.

He urged Nigerians to take “resolute actions” to ensure its success.

“Each parent eagerly awaiting the arrival of a child will dutifully undertake the necessary measures to ensure that the nurturing and development of this precious blessing remain a primary focus,” Abubakar wrote on X.

“This fundamental principle applies equally to investments, whether they be local or international.

“With this understanding, I am cautious in considering any deliberate attempts to impede the progress of the Dangote Refinery, a significant private sector project positioned to meet our energy and forex needs.

“Alongside numerous fellow citizens of goodwill, I call upon all Nigerians to take resolute actions to provide reassurance that both internal and external forces are not collaborating to prevent us from reaping the benefits promised by this eagerly anticipated transformative endeavour.”