NNPCL to Senate: We’re Not Criminals, Oil and Gas Industry Bleeding
In a passionate address to the Senate, Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), strongly defended the organization against allegations of economic sabotage.
Appearing before the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee led by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Kyari asserted that NNPCL has no involvement in the substandard importation of petroleum products into Nigeria.
Kyari emphasized that NNPCL operates with integrity and transparency, stating, “We are not criminals and we are not thieves. We will protect our dignity so we can serve this country.” He further explained that the oil and gas industry is currently facing significant challenges, which he described as “bleeding.”
The GCEO noted that NNPCL adheres to all relevant laws, including the Petroleum Industry Act and the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA).
He stressed that the company is committed to maximizing value for its stakeholders, which includes over 200 million Nigerians, and refuted claims that NNPCL is responsible for economic sabotage.
Kyari highlighted that NNPCL has transformed from a loss-making entity to a profit-generating company, countering misinformation that blames the corporation for the nation’s economic woes.
He also denied any involvement in the importation of substandard petroleum products, stating, “Nobody will bring product into this country that doesn’t meet the specifications. If it does happen, it’s a crime.”
The session also saw contributions from other key stakeholders. Aliyu Sulaiman, Group Chief Strategy Officer of Dangote Refinery, expressed gratitude to NNPCL for supplying 60% of the 5 million barrels of crude oil acquired by the refinery. Sulaiman called for continued support to ensure the refinery’s growth and success.
Alhaji Abubakar Shettima, National President of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), urged against monopolistic practices in the petroleum sector and requested improved supply to retail outlets to alleviate fuel shortages.
Finance Minister Wale Edun noted that increasing crude oil production would stabilize the foreign exchange market and expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to conduct an unbiased investigation.
Similarly, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, Minister of State for Petroleum (Oil), reaffirmed the government’s commitment to rehabilitating national refineries and supporting both Dangote and modular refineries.
Senator Bamidele raised concerns over the dysfunctionality of government-owned refineries despite significant investments. He pointed out that the country relies heavily on imported petroleum products, leading to frequent fuel shortages.
Bamidele called for a joint investigation by the Senate and House of Representatives to address these challenges and ensure accountability.
The session concluded with Bamidele promising a fair and impartial investigation, aimed at eradicating malfeasance in the petroleum industry and fostering a transparent and efficient sector.
