The Home of Representatives Committee on Petroleum Assets (Midstream) will meet on Thursday, July 24, to evaluate the state of Nigeria’s 4 government-owned refineries, following rising controversy over their performance and the potential of a sale.
The refineries, positioned in Port Harcourt (two), Warri, and Kaduna, have remained a nationwide concern amid conflicting studies about their operational standing.
Whereas former Nigerian Nationwide Petroleum Firm Restricted (NNPCL) boss Mele Kyari had introduced that the Port Harcourt refinery had resumed refining operations, latest feedback by Dangote Group President, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, forged severe doubt over their viability.
In response, Committee Chairman Henry Okojie mentioned the Home is able to examine the true state of the services, notably in mild of remarks by the present NNPCL Group Chief Government Officer, Bayo Ojulari, suggesting the refineries could possibly be offered.
Ojulari had hinted on the outdated state of the refineries, stating they might lack the capability to compete within the evolving world oil refining trade.
Okojie mentioned Thursday’s assembly would permit lawmakers to look at all points and resolve on the most effective plan of action within the curiosity of Nigerians.
“Like I acknowledged not too long ago, this Committee was arrange by the management of the Home of Representatives, symbolised by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, GCON, to serve the curiosity of the Nigerian folks,” he instructed Punch.
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“We’re out to make it possible for no matter determination we take serves the curiosity of our folks, on whose behest we’re on the Nationwide Meeting right this moment.
“The Committee will meet this week, hopefully by Thursday, to think about all points earlier than us regarding the state of the refineries.
“There are studies that over $18 billion has been spent on turnaround upkeep of the refineries. If so, why are they not working? If promoting them is a greater choice, we are going to know. However till we examine the scenario on the bottom, we can not decide.”
Okojie, a member of the All Progressives Congress, urged Nigerians to stay calm and keep away from politicising the matter.
He additionally clarified that the Federal Authorities has not but determined to promote the refineries, regardless of Ojulari’s feedback.
“It isn’t time for election but, and I don’t assume it’s useful to politicise this matter. The President Bola Tinubu-led authorities has not mentioned it’s promoting off the refineries. The NNPCL’s GCEO merely mentioned sale is likely to be an choice.
“Our Committee has work to do and we are going to do it in the most effective curiosity of our beloved nation,” he added.
