Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has strongly criticized the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) over its handling of the nation’s refineries, citing years of inefficiency and financial waste. The former president also described a public invitation from the NNPCL to tour the rehabilitated refineries as disrespectful and inappropriate.
Obasanjo’s Efforts to Revive Refineries
During his administration, Obasanjo took steps to address the operational challenges of Nigeria’s three major refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna. He sought Shell’s expertise to manage these facilities, but the oil giant declined both equity and operational involvement, citing concerns about the system’s inefficiencies.
In response, Obasanjo turned to Nigeria’s billionaire businessman, Aliko Dangote, who assembled a consortium and offered $750 million to manage the refineries under a public-private partnership. However, this initiative was reversed by his successor, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who refunded Dangote’s payment and returned the refineries to NNPCL’s management. Obasanjo later described this decision as a costly mistake.
Billions Spent Without Results
Since the refineries were returned to NNPCL, over $2 billion has reportedly been spent on rehabilitation projects, yet the facilities have remained largely non-functional. Obasanjo pointed out that if a reputable company like Shell refused to participate, it signaled fundamental issues within the system.
He also compared the inefficiencies of NNPCL’s management to the progress of Dangote’s privately owned refinery, which has been praised for its efficiency and potential to address Nigeria’s fuel needs.
NNPCL Defends Its Position
In response to Obasanjo’s criticisms, NNPCL’s spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, stated that the refineries have undergone significant rehabilitation to meet global standards. He invited the former president to visit the facilities and see the progress for himself.
Soneye said, “We are proud of the work being done to restore these critical assets and believe that seeing the improvements firsthand will clarify any misconceptions.”
Obasanjo Rejects the Invitation
Obasanjo, however, rejected the invitation, labeling it as an act of disrespect. Through his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, he expressed disappointment at the public nature of the invitation, emphasizing that such communication should have been handled formally and respectfully.
Akinyemi remarked, “It is a total disrespect for the office of the former president. Inviting him through a public statement rather than a formal invitation is an absolute insult. President Obasanjo cannot dignify such with a response.”
A Divided Opinion on Refinery Rehabilitation
This clash has reignited debates over the management of Nigeria’s refineries and the effectiveness of government-led initiatives. While NNPCL insists on showcasing progress, critics like Obasanjo argue that the root problems remain unresolved, calling for more transparent and efficient management of these national assets.
The controversy has also highlighted the importance of respecting protocol when engaging with former leaders, particularly on sensitive national issues.
What’s Your Take on This Issue?
Do you believe Nigeria’s refineries can achieve world-class standards under government management, or is a private-public partnership the better solution? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!
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