The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has called on the federal government to place ban on the importation of diesel.
According to the group, ban on the importation of diesel will not only support local production but also conserve foreign exchange and boost the economy.
NANS Senate President, Afeez Akinteye said this on Thursday during a tour
to Dangote Refinery located in Lagos State.
The group who were welcomed by the Vice President of Dangote Refinery Engr Devakumar Edwin noted that ban on the importation of diesel will help foster economic development.
NANS also urged the federal government to Direct Marketers to Purchase Refined Products from the refinery to promote local.
“Our visit here today allowed us to fully appreciate the immense scale and advanced capabilities of this world-class facility.
“.Dangote Refinery, one of the largest in the world, is equipped with the latest laboratory technology, including cutting-edge equipment that surpasses those found in many other refineries globally.
“The refinery has the capacity to produce Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), diesel, petrol, and other refined products that can not only meet Nigeria’s domestic needs but also serve international markets.
“Additionally, the refinery produces high-quality fertilizers for farmers, further contributing to the agricultural sector. Impressively, the Dangote Refinery generates its own electricity, with a capacity sufficient to power an entire region in Nigeria.
“This self-sufficiency in energy production is a testament to the advanced infrastructure and operational excellence of the refinery.
“Also during our visit to the refinery, we observed the refinery’s robust waste management strategies, which include innovative methods to recycle waste and mitigate the environmental impact of industrial activities on the surrounding communities.
“In light of these observations, NANS calls on the Federal Government to take decisive action to maximize the benefits of this remarkable facility for the nation.
“We demand an immediate ban on the importation of diesel. Given the refinery’s capacity to produce high-quality diesel domestically, this measure will not only support local production but also conserve foreign exchange and boost the economy.
“Furthermore, we urge the Federal Government to issue a directive instructing all petroleum marketers to prioritize the purchase of refined products from the Dangote Refinery. This will ensure that the nation’s refined product needs are met locally, fostering economic growth and reducing dependence on foreign imports.
“The Dangote Refinery represents a monumental achievement in Nigeria’s industrial sector, and its full potential must be harnessed for the benefit of the country. NANS stands firmly in support of measures that will promote self-sufficiency, economic development, and environmental sustainability”, he added.
