Say It Loud: NNPCL Boss Speaks Out On Dangote Refinery Operations

According to Ireporter Online, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has described the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as a crucial stabiliser of Nigeria’s energy sector, amid challenges faced by state-owned refineries struggling to meet domestic fuel demand.

Ojulari made the remarks on Wednesday during a fireside chat titled “Securing Nigeria’s Energy Future” at the Nigeria International Energy Summit 2026 in Abuja. He noted that the operational Dangote Refinery has provided the national oil company with essential relief in ensuring a steady fuel supply across the country.

The NNPCL chief urged Nigerians to acknowledge the refinery’s significance, regardless of opinions about its owner, highlighting that the plant’s performance drew widespread commendation from summit attendees. “Thank God for Dangote Refinery. Whether you love Dangote or not, Nigerians should be grateful for this achievement,” Ojulari said, receiving applause from the audience.

Ojulari emphasised that the 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery came online at a critical juncture, when Nigeria’s government-owned refineries were still unable to operate at full capacity. He explained that while the refinery does not yet meet the country’s entire fuel requirements, it has eased pressure on NNPC and reduced vulnerabilities in the nation’s fuel supply chain. “It gives us breathing space, and fortunately, we are shareholders in the refinery,” he said.

Highlighting the importance of local ownership, Ojulari remarked, “Thank God he’s a Nigerian. Having a refinery built and operated by a Nigerian has been a significant advantage for our energy security.”

Ojulari’s statements reflect a shift in relations between NNPC and the Dangote Group, which had previously been strained over issues such as crude supply agreements, regulatory approvals, pricing, and market dominance concerns. Under current leadership, the company has prioritised collaboration over confrontation.

He confirmed that NNPC has engaged directly with Alhaji Aliko Dangote to establish a cooperative framework under the Petroleum Industry Act. “Our strategy is to collaborate with the Dangote Refinery and maximise benefits for Nigerians. We met with Alhaji Dangote, outlined our responsibilities, and agreed on a pathway towards deeper cooperation while maintaining NNPC’s role,” Ojulari explained.