- Says even ordinary Nigeria Vice-president’s residence takes 14 years to complete
The Senate leadership lauded the 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) Dangote Petroleum Refinery as the 9th wonder of the world, while harshly criticizing skeptics of the project. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, leading the 10th Senate on a tour of the refinery in Lagos, declared that detractors have been silenced and previous governments shamed by the refinery’s completion.
Akpabio assured Nigerians that the National Assembly would take necessary measures to protect the refinery, emphasizing its importance to Nigeria and Africa. He praised Alhaji Aliko Dangote for achieving this remarkable feat, noting that even the residence of Nigeria’s Vice-President took 14 years to complete.
“They told us in Abuja that Dangote Refinery was a farce, but we have seen for ourselves that it is alive and running. Dangote has put many to shame. People wonder how one individual accomplished what a whole nation of 240 million people couldn’t,” Akpabio said.
He continued, “Nigeria failed to make refineries function in Kaduna, Port Harcourt, and Warri, but Dangote and his team proved it is possible to dream and achieve it in Nigeria.”
Akpabio noted that Dangote has removed the shame associated with Nigeria’s oil discovery in 1958, contrasting it with India’s lack of oil but robust refining capabilities. The inability to refine oil domestically has caused significant hardship, leading even to a ban on importing dirty fuel from Belgium.
Describing the refinery as unbelievable, Akpabio, alongside other senators, pledged that the Senate and the National Assembly would enact robust legislation to protect the project and similar initiatives.
“Mr. Dangote, even your friends may envy you, wondering how you succeeded where nations and continents failed. We are here to endorse this major project and support its success,” Akpabio added.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu praised the refinery, stating it was a privilege for it to be in Lagos. He highlighted Dangote’s achievements, noting that the refinery puts Lagos and Nigeria on the global map of excellence.
In his remarks, Aliko Dangote expressed that the visit came at an auspicious time as the refinery is in the process of bringing various units on stream. He highlighted the refinery’s capacity to produce high-quality petroleum products and by-products, creating thousands of jobs and contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth.
“The refinery will export about 50 percent of its production, generating foreign exchange and supporting adjacent sectors like logistics, shipping, and engineering,” Dangote stated. He also noted the significant tax contributions of his companies and the vision to replicate successful industrial models like those in India and Saudi Arabia.
Dangote emphasized the vital role of the legislature in supporting domestic industry and ensuring energy security, appreciating the 10th National Assembly’s efforts to create a conducive business environment.
“The Legislature plays a crucial role globally in protecting and supporting domestic industry. Supporting the refinery secures its benefits and ensures energy security,” Dangote concluded.
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