Speaking on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, at the Energy and Labour Summit organised by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) in Abuja, Ojulari declared that the future of Nigeria’s energy sector is “above any individual interest.”
“We are determined to make sure that our refineries work. We’ve been carrying out detailed reviews, applying all learnings, and we are driven by the fact that the Nigerian state and the future of its success are above any individual,” Ojulari said.
The comments come after Dangote, whose private refinery recently commenced phased production, argued that government-owned refineries were unlikely to ever function optimally again, despite consuming over $18 billion in rehabilitation costs.
Background of the Refineries
The three government refineries have remained largely non-functional for decades. The Port Harcourt and Warri plants, briefly reopened in 2024, were later shut down for further maintenance. The Port Harcourt refinery has been closed since May 24, 2025, following a one-month scheduled maintenance that has now stretched into nearly two months.
Ojulari, however, ruled out the option of selling the facilities despite pressure from the Organised Private Sector, the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria, and petroleum marketers, who insist that privatisation remains the only viable path forward.
He explained that a “high-grade rehabilitation” plan was underway, with advanced technical partnerships being explored to complete the turnaround.
Past Controversies
The NNPC boss himself had, in July 2025, told Bloomberg at the OPEC Seminar in Vienna, Austria, that “all options were on the table” for the refineries. That remark sparked speculation of an imminent sale, which Ojulari has now categorically dismissed, insisting that disposal of the assets would lead to “further value erosion.”
In his words:
“Although progress is being made on all three refineries, the emerging outlook calls for stronger partnerships. Selling is not an option.”
Stakeholder Criticism
Petroleum marketers have criticised Ojulari for not visiting any of the refinery sites since assuming office four months ago. They argue that repeated shutdowns undermine public trust and delay Nigeria’s energy independence.
Nevertheless, Ojulari maintained that the NNPC remains focused on delivering a sustainable solution that will restore refinery operations and strengthen Nigeria’s downstream oil sector.
