A northern energy advocacy group, Arewa Youths Initiative for Energy Reforms (AYIFER), has commended the Dangote Refinery for reducing fuel prices nationwide, describing it as a major relief for Nigerians, especially during the Ramadan fasting period.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the group also urged the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, to fulfill his promise by ensuring the Kaduna Refinery resumes operations without further delay.
The statement, signed by Alhaji Bashir Al’Amin, National Coordinator, and Engr. Gideon Yakubu, General Secretary, highlighted the positive impact of Dangote’s intervention, noting that the price reduction has eased the burden of high fuel costs at a time when many families are struggling with the rising cost of living.
“This is the best way to serve God and humanity. Dangote Refinery has demonstrated its commitment to Nigerians regardless of religion or background. They did it during Christmas and New Year, and now they have done it again for Ramadan,” the group stated.
AYIFER further stressed that Dangote’s entry into the petroleum sector has disrupted monopolistic practices, which had long kept fuel prices artificially high.
“If not for Dangote breaking NNPCL’s monopoly, Nigerians might be buying fuel at N2,000 per litre today. His resilience against resistance from oil cabals, regulators, and importers of adulterated fuel has forced reforms in the sector,” the statement added.
The group also called on Nigerians, especially Muslims, to pray for Dangote during Ramadan, warning of alleged plans to sabotage his refinery by denying it crude oil supply.
AYIFER further urged NNPCL to prioritize the revival of the Kaduna Refinery, describing it as a critical asset for northern Nigeria’s economic sustainability.
It will be recalled that Dangote Refinery, in a public notice issued on February 26, 2024, announced price reductions at its three official off-takers—MRS, Ardova (AP), and Heyden, where fuel now sells at N860, N865, and N865 per litre, respectively.
The company stated that the adjustment was aimed at providing essential relief to Nigerians in celebration of the Ramadan season.
