ACF Calls for Protection of Dangote Refinery, Condemns ‘Sabotage Attempts’
ACF Calls for Protection of Dangote Refinery, Condemns ‘Sabotage Attempts’
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has called for the protection of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Company, describing it as a strategic national asset crucial to Nigeria’s economic stability and energy independence.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Tanko Baba, the northern socio-political group expressed deep concern over what it termed “thinly disguised attempts” to sabotage the operations of the $20 billion refinery located in Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State.
The ACF warned that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in fuel production and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
“The Dangote Refinery represents not only a landmark private investment but also a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s economic recovery and industrial growth,” the statement read. “Any attempt to frustrate its operations is an attack on national progress and economic sovereignty.”
The forum urged both the Federal Government and relevant regulatory agencies to ensure a level playing field for the refinery, while safeguarding it from political or commercial interference that could derail its objectives.
Prof. Baba noted that the ACF’s position was informed by growing public concern over reports of institutional bottlenecks and hostile competition allegedly aimed at frustrating the refinery’s full operations.
He said: “Rather than create obstacles, stakeholders should support the refinery’s success, as it holds immense potential to stabilize fuel supply, create jobs, attract foreign exchange, and stimulate industrial growth across the country.”
The ACF further emphasized that the success of the Dangote Refinery would have ripple effects on the Nigerian economy, particularly by reducing the financial burden of fuel subsidies and strengthening the naira through reduced import dependence.
The forum called on Nigerians to view the refinery as a shared national achievement, irrespective of ownership, urging all parties to prioritize collective economic progress over vested interests.
Commissioned in 2023, the Dangote Refinery is one of the largest single-train refineries in the world, with an installed capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. It is expected to meet Nigeria’s domestic fuel needs and export refined products across Africa once it becomes fully operational.
