Urging the Federal Government to put a halt to the importation of diesel, the National Association of Nigerian Students emphasized the importance of directing petroleum marketers to procure refined products exclusively from Dangote Refinery for the welfare of Nigerians.
In the view of NANS, this initiative will not only bolster local production but also conserve foreign exchange reserves and uplift the country’s economy.
In a statement issued in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, the president of the Senate, Akinteye Babatunde, further pressed the government to take resolute steps in harnessing the advantages of Dangote’s refinery for the nation’s advancement.
He elaborated on the refinery’s potential to manufacture premium motor spirit, diesel, and other refined products not only to cater to Nigeria’s internal demands but also to cater to global markets.
Akinteye remarked, “During our visit to Dangote Refinery, we were graciously received by the company’s Vice President, Devakumar Edwin.
“We were given an in-depth tour spanning nearly five hours, which enabled us to fully grasp the immense scale and cutting-edge capabilities of this world-class facility. Equipped with state-of-the-art laboratory technology, the refinery boasts advanced equipment surpassing many other refineries globally.
“The refinery stands ready to produce PMS, diesel, and other refined products to meet Nigeria’s domestic needs and also cater to international markets. Moreover, the refinery produces high-quality fertilizers to support farmers, further boosting the agricultural sector.”
The NANS president highlighted that achieving self-sufficiency in energy production underscores the refined infrastructure and operational excellence of the refinery.
“Based on these findings, NANS urges the Federal Government to take decisive measures to leverage the benefits of this remarkable facility for the nation’s progress.
“Specifically, we call for an immediate ban on diesel imports. Given the refinery’s ability to domestically produce high-quality diesel, this step will not only bolster local manufacturing but also conserve foreign exchange reserves and stimulate economic growth.
“Furthermore, we encourage the government to issue a directive mandating all petroleum marketers to give precedence to procuring refined products from Dangote Refinery. This will ensure that the country’s refined product demands are met locally, fostering economic development and diminishing reliance on foreign imports,” Akinteye emphasized.