The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has raised its voice in a firm appeal to oil sector stakeholders, urging them to ensure the smooth and uninterrupted operation of the Dangote Refinery. In a statement signed by Comrade Olushola Oladoja, NANS President, the association strongly condemned any actions that might undermine the refinery’s operations, stressing the crucial role it plays in the nation’s economic and energy landscape.
“The Dangote Refinery’s completion offers Nigeria a unique opportunity to reduce dependence on imported fuel while boosting local energy supply,” Oladoja remarked. “We stand firmly against any move that could obstruct its successful operations, as it is vital for the future of millions of Nigerians.”
The refinery, with a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is expected to meet Nigeria’s daily fuel consumption needs, estimated at around 550,000 barrels. If fully operational, it would not only cater to domestic demand but also create opportunities for fuel exports, marking a significant shift towards energy self-sufficiency.
“This is the first time Nigeria has a chance to meet its fuel demand with locally refined products,” Oladoja noted, emphasizing the strategic importance of the project in strengthening the nation’s economic position.
NANS further highlighted the numerous advantages of the Dangote Refinery, including the reduction of Nigeria’s foreign exchange burden from fuel imports, job creation, and improved energy security. The refinery has already provided both direct and indirect employment opportunities, and more are expected as production scales up.
“This project is a job creator, and as production increases, so will the number of opportunities for Nigerians,” Oladoja said.
The association urged both public and private sector actors to safeguard the refinery’s operations, ensuring it contributes to Nigeria’s long-term economic stability. “This is not just a business venture; it’s a collective responsibility that will enhance our energy supply and secure a prosperous future for the next generations,” Oladoja concluded.
NANS also called on key industry players like the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) to collaborate for the refinery’s uninterrupted operation. The association emphasized the need for unity across the sector to guarantee the project’s success.
