A group known as Concerned Nigerians has claimed that there is a deliberate plot to disrupt crude oil supply to local refineries.
Obinna Francis, the group’s National Coordinator, stated on Monday that they had uncovered a “sinister plot” aimed at preventing domestic refineries from accessing crude oil.
The group acknowledged the economic progress achieved under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing the need to safeguard local refineries from alleged sabotage by a “cabal” working with fuel importers.
Oil and Gas Reforms Under Threat
Francis highlighted that the success of Nigeria’s domestic refineries has led to lower fuel prices, which in turn has reduced food costs.
He expressed concern that certain individuals were attempting to reverse these gains, warning that disrupting crude oil supply would force Nigeria to resume fuel imports and potentially reintroduce subsidies.
“This plot is a calculated attempt to take Nigeria back to the era of petrol importation and subsidy payments,” Francis stated.
He urged the federal government and the Department of State Services (DSS) to intervene and prevent any disruption that could destabilize the economy.
Nigeria’s Refining Industry Gains Momentum
Nigeria is gradually becoming a refining hub in West Africa, with the Dangote Refinery and other private refineries helping to reduce fuel imports.
Despite this progress, many private refineries struggle to secure adequate crude oil feedstock for their operations.
Reports indicate that Nigeria’s gasoline imports have dropped to their lowest level in nearly eight years due to increased domestic refining capacity.
The Dangote Refinery, in addition to meeting local demand, is exporting refined petroleum products to several African and European countries, including Ghana, Togo, Cameroon, South Africa, and Angola.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has denied reports that it imported over 200 million liters of petrol in February 2025.
NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that while the company has not imported petrol this year, it retains the right to do so if necessary to ensure energy security.
