Lokpobiri denies directing NNPCL to halt refinery operations

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, has categorically denied reports that he directed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to cease running its own refineries.

In a statement released on Tuesday, Lokpobiri clarified that the claims, which stemmed from comments made by the Director of Upstream Ministry of Petroleum, Kamoru Busari, at a recent Lagos conference, were false and did not reflect his position.

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“I wish to categorically state that the claim that I directed the NNPCL to stop running its own refineries and focus solely on equity participation in other refineries is false. This does not represent my position as minister overseeing the oil sector, nor does it reflect the stance of the Federal Government,” Lokpobiri said.

He further explained that the NNPCL operates under the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) as an independent entity with its own functional board and management. The Ministry of Petroleum Resources, while providing strategic guidance, does not interfere in the daily operations of NNPCL.

Lokpobiri reaffirmed the government’s commitment to in-country refining, encouraging all companies, including NNPCL, to operate independently in line with global best practices.

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He stated: “The oil and gas sector is fully deregulated, and the Nigerian government remains committed to promoting in-country refining. We encourage companies, including NNPCL, to operate independently, following global best practices.”

In conclusion, the minister reiterated the government’s support for NNPCL’s continued growth and independence, ensuring its operations meet international standards for efficiency, transparency, and profitability. This clarification underscores the government’s commitment to fostering a robust and competitive oil and gas sector in Nigeria.