Devakumar Edwin, Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, has leveled serious allegations against International Oil Companies (IOCs) operating in Nigeria, accusing them of deliberate efforts to sabotage the Dangote Oil Refinery and Petrochemicals’ viability.
Speaking at a training program organized by the Dangote Group for Energy Editors, Edwin highlighted various challenges hindering the refinery’s operations and its impact on Nigeria’s economy.
Edwin criticized IOCs for allegedly inflating premium prices on local crude, forcing the refinery to resort to importing crude from as far as the United States, significantly increasing production costs.
He expressed frustration over what he described as deliberate efforts by IOCs to frustrate Dangote’s efforts to purchase local crude, despite government efforts to support domestic refineries.
The Vice President emphasized that Dangote Industries is the sole Nigerian company among 25 entities licensed to build refineries that has successfully delivered on its promise. He called for stronger governmental support to facilitate job creation and economic prosperity through enhanced local refining capacities.
In addition to challenges posed by IOCs, Edwin criticized the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) for allegedly granting licenses to importers of substandard refined products into Nigeria. He condemned the influx of high-sulphur diesel from sources like Russia, which poses health risks to Nigerians and contravenes international standards.
He further highlighted international efforts to restrict the export of low-quality fuels to West Africa, underscoring concerns over Nigeria’s continued issuance of import licenses for such products despite ample local refining capabilities.
Edwin concluded by urging the Nigerian government and regulatory bodies to prioritize the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and uphold standards that protect local industries and public health.
He cited examples from neighboring countries like Ghana, which have implemented legislative bans on contaminated fuels to safeguard their populations.
The accusations leveled by Dangote Oil Refinery highlight ongoing challenges within Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, where domestic refining capabilities are undermined by international interests and regulatory oversights.
As discussions intensify, stakeholders are called upon to address these issues to ensure sustainable growth and economic independence in Nigeria’s energy sector.
