A coalition of Civil Society Groups (CSGs) has emphasized that addressing the challenges in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector requires a united effort from all stakeholders.
They are calling on private oil marketers, depot owners, workers, media, civil society, and all participants in the petroleum distribution chain to collaborate with the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to maintain a stable supply of petroleum products nationwide.
The coalition, which includes the Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), Activists For Good Governance (AfGG), Campaign Against Impunity (CAI), Transparency Advocacy for Good Governance (TAGG), Centre for Promotion of Justice (CFPJ), and Women Advocates for Good Governance (WAGG), made this call on Tuesday at a press conference held at Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos.
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Comrade Femi Lawson of the Centre for Public Accountability (CPA), speaking at the conclusion of the coalition’s round-table discussion, stressed the importance of prioritizing national interests.
He stated, “It is imperative for Nigerians to join together to overcome obstacles and improve service delivery across Nigeria.”
Lawson commended NNPCL, particularly its Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, for their dedication in managing the complexities of petroleum product distribution amid challenges.
He highlighted their pivotal role in ensuring consistent fuel supply nationwide, especially during high-demand periods and logistical constraints.
“While acknowledging NNPCL’s achievements,” Lawson continued, “we recognize that sustainable solutions to sector challenges require concerted efforts from all stakeholders.”
He urged private oil marketers, depot owners, workers, the media, civil society, and all participants in the petroleum distribution chain to collaborate with NNPCL.
“Together,” he emphasized, “we must prioritize national interests, synchronize efforts, and enhance service delivery across Nigeria.”
Highlighting NNPCL’s role in national energy security under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021, Lawson underscored the corporation’s commitment to operate commercially while ensuring energy sufficiency through seamless petroleum product supply nationwide.
He noted NNPCL’s strategic partnerships, such as the acquisition of OVH downstream assets, aimed at expanding its retail network nationwide. This has enabled NNPCL to capture approximately 30% of the nation’s petroleum downstream retail market.
Lawson concluded by calling for continued vigilance and collaboration among stakeholders to achieve “a sustainable and energy-secure Nigeria.”
Comrade Sina Loremikan of the Campaign Against Impunity also emphasized the need for citizen engagement in the oil and gas sector amidst current challenges. He stressed the importance of speaking out against wrongdoing to foster a better Nigeria.
“In the face of these challenges,” Loremikan urged, “we must ensure open engagement with citizens. The media and other stakeholders have a crucial role in ensuring transparency and accountability.”