By Paul Joseph
The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, Bayo Ojulari, has praised the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, describing it as a major relief for Nigeria’s fuel supply.
Ojulari spoke on Wednesday at the Nigeria International Energy Summit 2026 in Abuja during a fireside chat titled “Securing Nigeria’s Energy Future”.
He said the refinery has given NNPC breathing space at a time when government-owned refineries are still struggling to operate efficiently and meet local fuel demand.
Ojulari urged Nigerians to appreciate the impact of the Dangote Refinery, regardless of their personal opinions about its owner.
According to him, the refinery’s operation has helped stabilise the country’s energy system and reduce pressure on fuel supply.
“Thank God for Dangote Refinery. Whether you love him or hate him, Nigerians should thank God for Dangote,” he said, drawing applause from participants at the event.
He explained that the 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery came at a critical time when Nigeria needed a functional local refinery to cushion supply challenges.
Ojulari also stressed the importance of the refinery being Nigerian-owned, saying it strengthened the country’s energy security.
He admitted that the refinery does not yet meet Nigeria’s full fuel needs but noted that it has significantly reduced supply risks. He added that NNPC is also a shareholder in the facility.
The NNPC boss said his comments reflect a new approach by the current leadership, focused on cooperation rather than conflict.
He disclosed that NNPC has engaged directly with Aliko Dangote to build a framework for collaboration in line with the Petroleum Industry Act.
According to Ojulari, both parties agreed to work together to maximise the benefits of the refinery for Nigerians while NNPC continues to carry out its regulatory and commercial responsibilities.
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