In a significant move to address and resolve the ongoing issues surrounding the Dangote Refinery, Distinguished Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Honourable Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), convened a high-level meeting with key stakeholders.
The meeting brought together prominent figures in the oil and gas sector, including Mr. Aliko Dangote, Chairman and CEO of Dangote Group; Mr. Farouk Ahmed, Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA); Mr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC); and Mr. Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC).
Stakeholders expressed their gratitude to the Honourable Minister for his exemplary leadership and timely intervention in facilitating this crucial dialogue. The focus of the meeting was on finding a sustainable and lasting solution to the current impasse affecting the Dangote Refinery. All parties demonstrated a commitment to collaborative and proactive problem-solving, aiming to ensure the refinery’s successful and optimal performance.
In his remarks, the Honourable Minister emphasized the importance of cooperation and synergy among all stakeholders to ensure the success and optimal performance of the oil and gas sector, which is pivotal for Nigeria’s economic growth and energy security. He highlighted the need for a collective approach to overcoming the challenges and ensuring the refinery’s smooth operation.
“This meeting marks a significant step towards resolving the challenges facing the Dangote Refinery and underscores our dedication to fostering a conducive environment for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector,” said Senator Lokpobiri. “The success of this sector is crucial for our nation’s economic growth and energy security.”
The stakeholders echoed the Minister’s sentiments, expressing their readiness to work together to achieve the common goal of a thriving oil and gas sector in Nigeria. The dialogue opened avenues for further discussions and laid the groundwork for actionable plans to address the issues at hand.
The Honourable Minister’s intervention and the stakeholders’ collaborative efforts signal a promising future for the Dangote Refinery and the broader oil and gas industry in Nigeria. This meeting is expected to pave the way for a series of initiatives aimed at ensuring the refinery’s operational excellence and contributing to the nation’s energy landscape.
Nneamaka Okafor
Special Adviser Media and Communication to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources
