The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, convened a crucial meeting with prominent figures from the oil and gas sector to address the ongoing issues surrounding the Dangote Refinery. Held recently, the meeting brought together key stakeholders including Aliko Dangote, Chairman and CEO of Dangote Group; Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority; Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission; and Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited.
According to a statement released by Nneamaka Okafor, Special Adviser Media and Communication to Senator Lokpobiri, the meeting focused on finding lasting solutions to the current challenges affecting the Dangote Refinery. All parties demonstrated a commitment to collaborative problem-solving and emphasized the importance of cooperation among stakeholders to ensure the success and optimal performance of Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
The statement highlighted Senator Lokpobiri’s emphasis on synergy among stakeholders for the benefit of Nigeria’s economic growth and energy security.
The meeting followed remarks by Aliko Dangote, who, in an interview with Premium Times, offered to sell his stake in the Dangote Refinery to NNPC amid concerns over industry monopolization. Farouk Ahmed had earlier voiced concerns over Dangote’s alleged request to halt import licenses for other marketers, potentially monopolizing the market and impacting energy security.
The discussions underscored the importance of balanced market dynamics and sustainable strategies for Nigeria’s petroleum industry.
