The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on key players within the oil and gas industry to actively support the smooth running and long-term success of the Dangote Refinery. In a statement released by its President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, NANS emphasized that the refinery holds significant promise for Nigeria’s economic and energy landscape. The association highlighted the project’s potential to drastically cut down the country’s reliance on imported petroleum products and boost the availability of fuel within the nation.

Oladoja made it clear that NANS would firmly resist any attempts to disrupt or undermine the refinery’s operations, arguing that the success of the project is tied to the well-being of millions of Nigerians and the broader economic future of the country. He called for strong cooperation among industry groups, particularly urging collaboration from organizations such as the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG). This cooperation, he noted, is vital to ensure the uninterrupted function of the refinery.

Highlighting the significance of the refinery’s production capacity — 650,000 barrels per day — Oladoja explained that this figure surpasses Nigeria’s daily consumption of 550,000 barrels, creating an opportunity not only for self-sufficiency but also for fuel exports. He underlined the economic benefits this could bring, including easing the pressure on foreign exchange reserves, enhancing national energy security, and creating widespread employment opportunities.

The student body also stressed that the Dangote Refinery has already begun to generate both direct and indirect jobs, with further opportunities expected as it scales production. NANS concluded by urging all sectors of society, including both governmental and private actors, to prioritize the refinery’s protection and functionality. According to Oladoja, ensuring the refinery’s success is a collective national duty, crucial for securing Nigeria’s energy future and achieving long-term economic growth.