The Federal Government expressed surprise at Dangote Refineries’ decision to import crude oil from the United States, stating it was not previously aware of this development.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Oil, Heineken Lokpobiri, made this statement on Thursday during the Ministerial Sectoral Updates in Abuja, part of the events marking President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s first year in office.
He emphasized that Nigeria has sufficient crude reserves to meet the demands of all local refineries, including the modular ones.
The briefing session featured several key ministers, including Senator Atiku Bagudu, Minister of Budget and National Planning; Mr. Nyesom Wike, Minister of the FCT; Dr. Jamila Ibrahim Bio, Minister of Youth Development; Dr. Mariya Mahmud, Minister of State for FCT; and Mr. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of State for Youth Development.
“I’m not aware that Dangote Refinery has started importing crude oil from the US. That’s the reason why we’re talking about an increase in production.
“That’s why we’re talking to servicing companies to come back and start drilling. The only way we can increase production is to continue drilling…” he said.
Addressing rumors about the Tinubu administration continuing to pay fuel subsidies, Lokpobiri clarified, “Regarding the subsidy, we all know that from the very first day the President assumed office, he declared that the subsidy is gone.”
“And I can confirm to you today that the subsidy is gone. But the point is, all over the world, governments find a way to subsidise. It may not be fuel but may be food … there’s no responsible government that will not find a way to ameliorate the suffering of its citizens. But pls I want it to be official that there’s no subsidy for fuel as of today.”
