A coalition of civil society organizations in Nigeria has called for the immediate removal of Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), citing harm to local refineries under his management.
The group, Nigerian Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (NICOCSO), protested at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, alleging that NNPCL’s policies prioritize profits over national prosperity.
The group also cites unnecessary Premium Motor Spirit importation, costing Nigeria billions annually. They advocate selling crude oil to local refineries in naira to reduce foreign exchange losses and promote economic sovereignty.
Speakers Segun Adebayo and Benjamin James emphasized holding accountable those prioritizing personal gain over national prosperity and supporting local industries.
Speaking to journalist in the event, the national spokesperson of the group, Segun Adebayo, noted that, “Despite Nigeria’s potential to refine fuel locally, vested interests within the NNPCL continue to impose Premium Motor Spirit importation on Nigeria.
“This unnecessary import dependency costs Nigeria billions in foreign exchange every year, placing our economy under enormous strain. Meanwhile, the people bear the brunt of fluctuating global oil prices and currency devaluation, while this cabal profits from maintaining the status quo.
“We must hold accountable those who prioritise personal gain over national prosperity. They are frustrating the nation’s move towards self-sufficiency, ensuring that Nigeria remains exposed to the volatility of the international oil market. This is unacceptable and unsustainable for a nation as richly endowed with natural resources as ours.”
In contribution, the national coordinator of the group, Benjamin James, called on the authorities to allow the sale of crude to local refineries in naira.
“One critical policy shift we advocate for is mandating that Nigerian crude oil be sold to local refineries in naira rather than in dollars. This change would significantly reduce our foreign exchange losses, empower local businesses, and protect the naira.
“A shift to selling crude oil domestically in naira would also send a strong message that Nigeria is serious about prioritising its local industries and economic sovereignty, he said.
Read also: Why the Cost of Fuel Hits Harder: Dangote Refinery, Not Nigerian Company, Says IPMAN
Jerome Kalu
Jerome Kalu is currently the Senior Correspondent of PIJAlance in Lagos. He was previously the Campus Information Desk (CID) Editor.