Segun Adeyemi

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<h2>Amid rising fuel importation figures, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) faces renewed criticism for allegedly backtracking on its pledge to rely on local refineries like Dangote Refinery.</h2>

Dr Robinson Onuh, Executive Director of the Energy Reforms Advocates of Nigeria (ERAN), condemned NNPCL’s management, calling recent leadership changes a "face-saving manoeuvre."

He stated, "The sacking of a few officials is not enough. Mele Kyari, Farouk Ahmed, and others leading regulatory agencies are the core of the energy sector's problems."

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/nnpcl-kyari-faces-public-outcry-over-alleged-naira3trn-fuel-importation-fraud/w3jf6p5">Kyari under fire for alleged ₦3 trillion fuel importation scandal at NNPCL</a>

The criticism follows NNPCL’s announcement of the dismissal of Umar Ajiya, Chief Financial Officer, and Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, Executive Vice President (Upstream), citing improved corporate governance as the reason.

Despite earlier promises to end fuel importation and prioritise locally refined products, Nigeria reportedly imported 1.5 million metric tonnes of petrol, 414,018 metric tonnes of diesel, and 13,500 metric tonnes of aviation fuel between October 1 and November 11, costing nearly ₦3 trillion.

Onuh accused the NNPCL of dishonouring its commitments, stating, “Kyari has made a U-turn on his pledge, demonstrating a lack of integrity.”

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project/pphe9nl">Kyari, NNPCL under fire over $2bn Port Harcourt Refinery project</a>

The statement also decried the state of government-owned refineries. "Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries remain in comatose despite trillions injected into them, forcing Nigerians to endure adulterated fuel,” Onuh said.

In a response, NNPCL spokesperson Olufemi Soneye clarified that Kyari never pledged to completely halt imports but instead to prioritise local refineries.

ERAN has urged more decisive actions to revitalise the nation’s refineries and address inefficiencies, warning that continued mismanagement risks further economic harm.

Federal High Court in Abuja orders the freezing of four Jaiz Bank accounts linked to former NNPCL boss Mele Kyari amid EFCC fraud investigation. [Getty Images]

Amid rising fuel importation figures, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) faces renewed criticism for allegedly backtracking on its pledge to rely on local refineries like Dangote Refinery.

Fuel importation crisis sparks outrage over NNPCL's refinery claims

<h2>The Coalition for Economic Liberation and Transformation (CELT) has alleged a staggering ₦3 trillion fuel importation fraud involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and its business partners. </h2>

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, November 15, CELT's Executive Director, Henry Owolabi, criticised NNPCL’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari, for favouring fuel imports over domestic refining.

Between October 1 and November 11, Nigeria imported 1.5 million metric tonnes of premium motor spirit, 414,018 metric tonnes of diesel, and 13,500 metric tonnes of aviation fuel.

Owolabi condemned this practice, citing the Dangote Refinery’s capacity to process 650,000 barrels of oil daily as a viable alternative.

“Kyari’s deliberate sabotage of our refineries is criminal,” Owolabi asserted, adding that the importation exacerbates Nigeria’s currency challenges.

READ ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/nnpc-boss-kyari-vows-to-expose-truth-amidst-oil-sector-allegations/k9h5bgk">I’ll reveal truth about NNPC operations in due time - NNPC boss Kyari</a>

CELT claimed Kyari’s actions undermine President Bola Tinubu’s policies aimed at strengthening the naira through domestic crude sales to local refineries.

“This irresponsible importation compromises the naira and disrespects the President’s efforts to stabilise the economy,” Owolabi said.

The coalition urged the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt further payments for fuel imports, demanding regulatory scrutiny into the financial and quality aspects of imported fuel.

“Kyari and his cronies should source their own foreign exchange if they insist on importing what we can produce locally,” CELT declared.

Calling for Kyari’s dismissal, CELT emphasised the need for transparency and accountability in NNPCL operations. The group also advocated prioritising domestic refining to ensure energy security, reduce costs, and promote economic growth.

“This scandal is a wake-up call for the government to invest in functional refineries and redirect funds towards critical sectors like healthcare and education,” Owolabi concluded.

Protesters outside EFCC headquarters in Abuja demanding the prosecution of ex-NNPCL boss Mele Kyari over the alleged $4bn refinery scandal. [Getty Images]

The Coalition for Economic Liberation and Transformation (CELT) has alleged a staggering ₦3 trillion fuel importation fraud involving the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and its business partners.

Kyari under fire for alleged ₦3 trillion fuel importation scandal at NNPCL

<h2>Embattled Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, faces growing calls for his resignation as civil society groups and Niger Delta activists demand his immediate removal. </h2>

Activist groups, including the Niger Delta Activists for Renewed Hope (NDARH), issued a 72-hour ultimatum, warning that if Kyari is not sacked within this timeframe, they will mobilise street protests in Abuja and Port Harcourt.

In a statement by NDARH President Comrade Jack Dickson and Secretary Barr. Kingsley Idono, the activists criticised Kyari for the ongoing operational failures of key refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, despite substantial government investments.

“The man Mele Kyari…has become so powerful that he believes no one could remove him,” stated Dickson.

He described Kyari’s leadership as a major roadblock to fulfilling the “Renewed Hope Agenda” promised by President Bola Tinubu.

“Despite trillions of naira…none [of the refineries] is functioning,” he added.

The activists argue Kyari’s tenure has left Nigerians burdened by high fuel prices, with Dickson insisting that “Kyari must resign honourably… to give way to someone who would revive the plants.”

The Niger Delta groups claim this failure undermines the 2027 election prospects, as campaign promises to revitalise the oil sector remain unfulfilled.

Adding pressure, Engr. Efe Irabor of the Coalition of Civil Society Groups against Corruption in the Energy Sector revealed more organisations are joining the protests, aiming to mobilise 10 million Nigerians.

“If the President keeps him, his government risks unpopularity,” Irabor warned.

On Tuesday, November 5,<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/photos-protesters-take-over-fct-demand-kyaris-resignation-from-nnpcl/vdjbrmb"> protesters shut down the National Assembly,</a> demanding Kyari’s resignation.

The coalition pledges ongoing protests, urging immediate government action to address the public’s discontent.

Embattled Group Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, faces growing calls for his resignation as civil society groups and Niger Delta activists demand his immediate removal.

Kyari gets 72 hours ultimatum to resign as NNPCL boss

<h2>In a forceful demonstration, over 20,000 Nigerians, including members of the APC Solidarity and Development Forum and various civil society groups, marched to the Three Arms Zone in Abuja on Tuesday, November 5.</h2>

The protesters demanded the resignation of Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), citing his “incompetent leadership” and the <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/mass-protest-hits-nnpc-towers-amid-fuel-crisis/fzfzdz6">ongoing crisis of fuel scarcity.</a>

The protest, led by youth activists Kabir Matazu and Danielsi Momoh, targeted the leadership of the NNPCL, alleging that Kyari’s management has failed to deliver on critical commitments, including the operationalisation of local refineries.

“Kyari’s continued leadership is detrimental to NNPCL and the Nigerian populace. It is time for new leadership that prioritizes accountability and efficiency,” they asserted, highlighting the need for reforms within the corporation.

In an open letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Matazu and Momoh criticized NNPCL’s alleged mismanagement.

<h3>Failed operation of local refineries</h3>

Protest leaders addressing pressmen at the three arm zone in Abuja on Tuesday, November 5. [Original]

Despite<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project/pphe9nl"> the federal government’s $4 billion investment in refinery repairs</a>, they argued, Kyari has failed to provide a “clear roadmap” for their revitalisation.

“This crisis not only undermines public confidence but also affects the presidency’s Renewed Hope agenda,” the protest leaders noted.

The demonstrators further expressed concerns about corruption cases within NNPCL.

“We call for the immediate establishment of a committee to investigate the ongoing allegations of sleaze and fraud under Mr. Kyari’s leadership,” they stated, pressing for accountability through a National Assembly investigation and prosecution by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In addition to Kyari’s resignation, the protest leaders called for stricter regulations to curb the importation of substandard petroleum products, safeguarding public health and safety.

They urged the appointment of a “qualified individual” capable of steering the oil sector towards transparency and productivity.

Streams of protesters at the three arm zone in Abuja on Tuesday, November 5. [Original]

In a forceful demonstration, over 20,000 Nigerians, including members of the APC Solidarity and Development Forum and various civil society groups, marched to the Three Arms Zone in Abuja on Tuesday, November 5.

PHOTOS: FCT erupts in protest as thousands demand Kyari’s exit from NNPCL

<h2>Thousands of Nigerians trooped out to protest outside the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) headquarters in Abuja on Monday, November 4, demanding the resignation of Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari. </h2>

Led by the Two Million Man March Against Oil Scam Cabal and Citizens and Economic Freedom Rights Activists in Nigeria (CEFRAN), protesters voiced frustration over skyrocketing fuel prices, persistent shortages, and the economic toll on citizens.

Abdullahi Bilal, co-convener of the protest, decried Kyari’s leadership, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project/pphe9nl">accusing him of prioritising personal gain over public welfare. </a>

"Under Kyari’s watch, fuel prices have spiked with little regard for the impact on Nigerians,” he stated. “We are demanding his immediate resignation to allow for leaders who genuinely prioritise the welfare of Nigerians.”

Thousands of protesters at the NNPC towers in Abuja on Monday, November 4. [Original]

The demonstrators highlighted widespread dissatisfaction with the fuel subsidy system, arguing that it enriches a select few while most Nigerians suffer.

“The subsidy regime is a tool for corruption,” Bilal remarked. “Full deregulation is essential to bring transparency and competition to the oil sector.”

Protesters also condemned the importation of adulterated fuel, which they called a harmful practice that has deepened the nation’s fuel crisis.

Barrister Napoleon Otache, representing CEFRAN, demanded accountability, stating, “This act of economic sabotage has led to endless fuel queues and worsened Nigerians’ daily lives. We need answers and accountability for these failures.”

The rally raised concerns about the $4 billion allocated to rehabilitate Nigeria’s refineries, with protesters noting that the promised improvements remain unmet.

“Nigerians were assured that the Dangote Refinery would resolve our fuel issues, yet we continue to face scarcity and rising prices,” Bilal said.

As inflation climbs to 24.5% and fuel prices surge by over 200%, CEFRAN has vowed to sustain mobilisation efforts until comprehensive reforms are implemented.

Thousands of Nigerians trooped out to protest outside the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) headquarters in Abuja on Monday, November 4, demanding the resignation of Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari.

PHOTOS: Mass protest hits NNPC towers amid fuel crisis

<h2>A coalition of over 100 civil society organisations (CSOs) has called for immediate action against Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mallam Mele Kyari, over the prolonged inactivity at the Warri Refinery. </h2>

The coalition has threatened a mass protest to shut down NNPCL's corporate headquarters if immediate explanations are not provided for the stalled refinery, <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project/pphe9nl">despite a $3 billion investment aimed at its rehabilitation.</a>

Operating under the Coalition of Civil Society Groups Against Corruption in the Energy Sector, the organisations expressed frustration with the NNPCL's lack of transparency.

"We shall rise against this act of irresponsibility. Nigerian refineries must be put into full function," declared coalition spokesperson Engr. Efe Irabor.

READ ALSO: READ ALSO:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/nnpc-boss-kyari-vows-to-expose-truth-amidst-oil-sector-allegations/k9h5bgk">I’ll reveal truth about NNPC operations in due time - NNPC boss Kyari</a>

He warned that Kyari's management has compromised Nigeria's energy sector, hindering progress and stability.

The group contends that Kyari's leadership is derailing efforts to improve the local refinery capacity, which negatively impacts millions of Nigerians relying on affordable fuel.

Highlighting a specific grievance, Irabor cited allegations that NNPCL's regulatory measures actively discourage competition, referring to the Dangote Refinery example.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/mele-kyari-told-to-resign-over-dollar68bn-nnpc-debt-scandal/x5re7z7">APC youths demand Mele Kyari’s resignation over $6.8bn NNPC debt scandal</a>

"If crude was willingly sold to the Dangote Refinery, it would have reduced fuel prices, easing burdens on the masses," he stated.

The coalition also criticised NNPCL's alleged plans to convert Warri and Port Harcourt refineries into blending plants, claiming this benefits certain importers of high-sulphur fuel products with severe environmental impacts.

The coalition has pledged a "2 million-man march" to the National Assembly if no satisfactory response is forthcoming, underscoring the public's demand for accountability over refinery funding.

A coalition of over 100 civil society organisations (CSOs) has called for immediate action against Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mallam Mele Kyari, over the prolonged inactivity at the Warri Refinery.

Kyari under fire again as Warri Refinery operation stalls

<h2>President Bola Tinubu is under growing pressure to address the operational failures of Nigeria's refineries, particularly the Port Harcourt and Kaduna facilities. </h2>

This follows urgent calls from the Energy Reforms Advocates (ERA) and the APC Youth Vanguard for Change (APCYVC) for an investigation into the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, amid <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-races-against-time-as-pressure-mounts-over-failed-kaduna-ph-refinery/g6wjhlr">ongoing concerns about mismanaged funds and non-functional refineries.</a>

In a letter addressed to President Tinubu, ERA Convener Opialu Fabian and APCYVC Convener Ezewanka Ugochukwu expressed frustration over the <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project/pphe9nl">$2.9 billion earmarked in 2021 for refinery rehabilitation,</a> which has yet to yield results.

"Despite the approval of $2.9 billion… the refineries remain non-functional," the letter stated, calling NNPCL's repeated assurances of progress "a betrayal of trust."

The groups attributed these failures to "systemic corruption" and a lack of accountability within NNPCL, noting that billions allocated to refinery upkeep over 25 years have led to minimal fuel production.

The letter emphasised that "the continued importation of adulterated fuel" has hindered economic stability and posed health hazards to Nigerians, with vehicles and agricultural machinery suffering damage from substandard fuel.

ERA and APCYVC urged Tinubu to initiate a probe into NNPCL's leadership and hold Kyari accountable for stalled reforms.

They further proposed immediate actions, including revamping Nigeria's regulatory framework, reactivating local refineries, ensuring transparency in subsidy management, and strengthening public access to information.

<h3>Coalition demands resignation Kyari</h3>

Mele Kyari, chief executive officer of NNPC Co. Ltd. [Getty Images]

Similarly, the Coalition of Niger Delta Youths Against Poverty, Insecurity &amp; Environmental Degradation (CONDYAPIED) has demanded the resignation of Kyari.

They expressed disappointment in Kyari for failing to operationalise the Port Harcourt refinery by September 2024, as promised.

Engr. Jonas Igariga, Coalition Coordinator, urged Kyari to resign, saying, “In a sane society where leaders have a conscience, the likes of Mele Kyari should… tender their resignation and apologise to Nigerians.”

The coalition further alleged that plans to convert the Port Harcourt refinery into a blending plant would expose Niger Delta communities to hazardous chemicals from low-grade imported products.

“We shall not allow our refinery to be converted to a blending plant… We shall shut down Abuja in protest,” the coalition vowed.

According to the group, despite substantial funds, NNPCL’s approach has failed to address the country’s energy needs, pushing Nigerians deeper into hardship and environmental risks.

President Bola Tinubu is under growing pressure to address the operational failures of Nigeria's refineries, particularly the Port Harcourt and Kaduna facilities.

Tinubu under pressure over failed operation of PH, Kaduna, other refineries

<h2>The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Vanguard for Change and the Energy Reforms Advocates of Nigeria have issued a stern rebuke to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) for its repeated failures in restoring the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries. </h2>

Despite <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/kyari-nnpcl-faces-backlash-over-dollar2bn-port-harcourt-refinery-project/pphe9nl">the $1.5 billion allocated for the Port Harcourt refinery in 2021</a> and an additional $1.4 billion for the Warri and Kaduna refineries, the facilities remain non-functional, perpetuating Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel.

At a press conference on Friday, October 25, Dr Opialu Fabian, a leading voice in the advocacy groups, raised concerns about NNPCL’s commitment to refinery rehabilitation.

“These failures place Africa’s largest oil producer in the ironic position of depending entirely on imported petroleum products,” Fabian stated, highlighting the toll on Nigeria’s economy, fuel prices, and foreign reserves.

Fabian accused certain NNPCL entities of intentionally delaying refinery progress to sustain the profitable fuel importation business.

He also condemned the continuous importation of adulterated fuel, which he argued has worsened inflation, weakened the naira, and subjected Nigerians to endless queues at petrol stations.

“We are no longer willing to stand by as the nation’s potential is squandered by unaccountable leaders,” Fabian declared.

He demanded a complete overhaul of NNPCL’s leadership and transparency regarding the funds allocated to the refineries.

The groups urged the government to demand an account of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries' rehabilitation progress, calling for transparency on contracts, funds usage, and realistic timelines for production.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Vanguard for Change and the Energy Reforms Advocates of Nigeria have issued a stern rebuke to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) for its repeated failures in restoring the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries.

Kyari races against time as pressure mounts over failed Kaduna, PH refinery

<h2>The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has officially begun the repayment of its $6 billion debt, as confirmed by Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy. </h2>

The announcement was made during an investor meeting in Washington, D.C., signalling a step toward stabilising the company's financial position.

Speaking at the event, Edun addressed concerns about NNPCL's growing debt and ongoing financial strain despite <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/marketers-explain-real-cause-of-nnpcls-recent-fuel-price-increase/j8244vy">the removal of the fuel subsidy in May 2023. </a>

"Although the subsidy was removed on May 29, 2023, the company continued to face challenges, not in terms of petrol subsidy, but foreign exchange subsidy, which was borne elsewhere, mainly by NNPC," he explained.

This burden exacerbated the company's difficulties, particularly in maintaining supply obligations.

The Minister assured stakeholders that the NNPCL has outlined a structured plan to settle its debts.

"What I can say about their situation now is that they have a route to paying down their payables, and I'm sure that in no time, they will start. From what I understand, they have even commenced the process," he confirmed.

NNPCL's debt, which amounts to over<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/fuel-scarcity-may-worsen-as-nnpcl-admits-dollar6bn-debt-to-petrol-suppliers/6vf73bm"> $6 billion owed to suppliers,</a> has been a topic of concern among investors and industry experts.

The company has previously admitted to experiencing significant financial pressure, especially due to rising foreign exchange costs.

This latest development is expected to restore confidence among domestic and international investors, offering reassurance about NNPCL's ability to navigate its financial commitments while maintaining supply stability.

Wale Edun, Nigeria's finance minister, during a Bloomberg Television interview on day two of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. [Getty Images/Bloomberg]

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has officially begun the repayment of its $6 billion debt, as confirmed by Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy.

FG confirms NNPCL repayment process to clear $6bn debt

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