On Saturday, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas led the House of Representatives leadership on a familiarization visit to the Dangote Refinery, accompanied by Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group. Abbas emphasized that the visit was part of ongoing efforts to support and understand critical industries in Nigeria’s economy.
“This visit aims to provide the House Leadership and relevant oil and gas committees with a comprehensive understanding of the Dangote Refinery’s operations. It aligns with our legislative agenda, supporting President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda focused on economic transformation and growth,” Abbas stated.
He highlighted the commitment to engaging with and supporting vital sectors that drive the economy, using insights from the tour to inform legislative actions. Abbas reaffirmed the House’s dedication to improving the business environment through legislative reforms that streamline processes and reduce bureaucracy, aiming to attract both local and international investors.
The visit follows controversy surrounding claims by Farouk Ahmed, CEO of the Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, who criticized the quality of Dangote Refinery’s products and questioned its operating license. This situation has created confusion in the oil and gas sector.
Former NNPCL COO Engineer Bello Rabiu and Dangote Industries VP Devakumar Edwin have also raised concerns about sector challenges, including higher crude oil prices imposed by international oil companies. Aliko Dangote has announced that the refinery will begin fuel supply by August, potentially ending fuel imports and addressing high local fuel prices. The Senate, led by President Godswill Akpabio, had previously visited the refinery on June 3, 2024.
