Nigerians Told Not to Expect Dangote Refinery to be their Savior

Senator Shehu Sani, a former Nigerian lawmaker, has cautioned the public against expecting the Dangote Refinery to solve the country’s fuel shortage woes. In a social media post, Sani emphasized that the refinery is a business venture, not a charity, and should not be relied upon to provide fuel at a discounted rate.

The statement comes amid growing anticipation surrounding the upcoming launch of the Dangote Refinery, which is expected to increase Nigeria’s refining capacity and reduce the country’s reliance on imports. However, Sani’s warning highlights the limitations of the refinery, stating that the pricing of petroleum products is determined by global market forces, not charity.

According to Sani, the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) remains the primary driver of the country’s energy sector, responsible for ensuring stability and security in the industry. He cautioned Nigerians against expecting Dangote to be their savior, urging them to recognize the refinery’s limitations as a business venture.

Dangote, the chairman of the Dangote Group, is a successful businessman who has built a reputation on his entrepreneurial ventures, not his charitable deeds. Sani’s advice is a reminder that while the Dangote Refinery may bring relief to Nigeria’s fuel shortage, it is not a silver bullet solution.

The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited still holds the key to the country’s energy future, and Sani’s words of caution serve as a stark reminder of the importance of realistic expectations. As Nigeria looks to the future of its energy sector, it is crucial to prioritize strategic planning and sustainable solutions over false hopes and unrealistic expectations.