Peter Obi, the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 Presidential Election, has called on the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide necessary support to the Dangote refinery amidst ongoing disputes with regulatory authorities.
The appeal comes after Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, expressed his willingness to transfer ownership of his multibillion-dollar oil refinery to the state-owned Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) following allegations of producing substandard diesel by local regulatory authorities.
In a recent tweet on his official X (formerly known as Twitter) account, Obi said the refinery is important to Nigeria’s economic development and urged for a swift resolution of the conflicts.
“Dangote Refinery Should Be Fully Supported, Not Vilified,” Obi wrote.
“The recent conflicts between Dangote Industries and some government agencies are deeply troubling. This issue transcends political affiliations and personal grievances. It is fundamentally about Nigeria’s economy, future, and the well-being of its citizens. Given Alhaji Dangote’s significant contributions to Nigeria, it is crucial that these disputes are resolved swiftly.”
He further stated, “Government agencies should be directed to offer the necessary support for the seamless launch and operation of the Dangote Refinery and its associated enterprises. The refinery has the potential to generate approximately $21 billion in annual revenue and create over 100,000 jobs, with numerous additional positive impacts on the economy. Its strategic importance in addressing Nigeria’s fuel crisis, boosting foreign exchange earnings, and fostering economic growth cannot be overstated. The refinery is too vital to fail and must not be hindered, considering its crucial role in our national welfare.”
Obi urged the Federal Government and its agencies to acknowledge Dangote’s contributions to the nation.
“Alhaji Dangote is not just a businessman; he is a national and African brand symbolising patriotism, commitment, and impactful entrepreneurship. Despite operating in a challenging business environment, he has established a remarkable industrial hub in Nigeria, encompassing over 15 sectors, including cement, sugar, salt, fertilizer, infrastructure, tomatoes, automotive, energy, petrochemicals, rice, poly sacks, real estate, mining, logistics, and maritime.”
He concluded by stressing that Dangote’s unwavering dedication to Nigeria’s industrialisation, job creation, and economic growth warrants full support and protection.
“With economic indicators like unemployment, inflation, forex scarcity, and debt worsening, every sensible and patriotic government should regard enterprises like Dangote Industries as national treasures, meriting robust support and protection. In the interest of Nigeria and its citizens, as well as Africans at large, I urge the Federal Government and its agencies to provide Dangote Industries, especially the refinery, with all necessary support. The success of Dangote is intrinsically linked to the success of Nigeria and Africa; conversely, its failure would be a significant setback for both Nigeria and the continent.”
