Minister Lokpobiri Refutes Claims on NNPCL Refinery Operations

Minister Lokpobiri Refutes Claims on NNPCL Refinery Operations

Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), has refuted statements attributed to him at a recent conference in Lagos. The statements, made by Engr. Kamoru Busari, Director of Upstream at the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, suggested that the Minister had directed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to cease operating its own refineries and focus solely on equity participation in other refineries.

In a firm response, Senator Lokpobiri categorically denied the claim, stating that it does not reflect his stance as Minister overseeing the oil sector, nor that of the Federal Government. He clarified that NNPCL is governed by the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) and operates independently under its own board and management. The Ministry of Petroleum Resources does not control or run NNPCL, which functions as a corporate entity.

The Minister emphasized that Nigeria's oil and gas sector is fully deregulated, and the Federal Government remains committed to fostering in-country refining. He reiterated that while the government provides strategic guidance to companies, including NNPCL, it does not interfere in their day-to-day operations.

Senator Lokpobiri reaffirmed his commitment to supporting NNPCL's growth and independence, ensuring that the company operates efficiently, transparently, and in line with international standards.

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