The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited has denied any involvement in an alleged attempt to sabotage the Dangote Refinery, highlighting its significant financial stake in the project.
In a recent interview on the Bereke Family Radio Programme, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, emphasized that the company has invested billions of naira in the refinery and currently holds a 7.2% stake.
Soneye argued that undermining the refinery would be counterproductive to NNPC’s own interests.
Soneye clarified that NNPC has no connection to Mr. Farouq Ahmed, head of Nigeria’s mainstream and downstream petroleum regulatory authorities, who had raised concerns about the refinery’s operations.
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He stated, “NNPC Limited doesn’t have any issue at all with Dangote Refinery. We are part owners, and we want it to succeed. We put billions of naira into the refinery, so why would we sabotage it?”
He further explained that Mr. Ahmed’s authority over refinery operations is independent of NNPC’s influence, emphasizing that NNPC has no involvement in regulatory matters.
The statement comes amid tensions and allegations of sabotage within the petroleum industry.
NNPC’s investment in the Dangote Refinery underscores its commitment to the project’s success, countering claims of malicious intent.
As the refinery prepares to commence operations, NNPC’s reassurance seeks to dispel concerns and foster collaboration within Nigeria’s petroleum sector.