NNPC, Dangote Refinery resolve differences, pledge new era of cooperation

Following several months of rivalry and disputes, Nigeria’s leading oil refiners, NNPC Limited and Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals, have resolved to set aside their differences and collaborate for the benefit of the nation’s energy sector.

During a meeting held in Abuja, both companies expressed their commitment to fostering deeper cooperation to secure Nigeria’s energy needs and advance national prosperity.

The two firms had previously been engaged in a contentious battle over petrol pricing, which resulted in the suspension of the Federal Government’s crude-for-naira arrangement last year. The agreement was subsequently reinstated following changes in NNPC’s leadership.

In a statement released on Friday by NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, it was disclosed that the resolution was reached during a courtesy visit by the President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, accompanied by his team, to the NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, at the NNPC Towers.

During the meeting, Mr Dangote expressed his company’s commitment to working collaboratively with the national oil corporation, dispelling any notion of rivalry. He stated, “There is no competition between us. NNPC is an integral part of our operations, and we are also a part of NNPC. This marks a new era of cooperation.”

He also congratulated Mr Ojulari and his team on their recent appointments, acknowledging the considerable responsibility that lies ahead, while expressing confidence in their capacity to succeed, given the skilled workforce at their disposal.

In his response, Mr Ojulari assured that the relationship between the two entities would be mutually beneficial, grounded in healthy competition and collaboration. He commended the dedication and professionalism of the NNPC workforce, describing them as industrious and committed to delivering value to the nation.

Furthermore, Mr Ojulari reiterated NNPC’s commitment to maintaining its partnership with the Dangote Group, particularly where such collaboration would yield commercial advantages for Nigeria. Both leaders pledged to act as relationship managers for their respective organisations, with a shared commitment to building a productive and sustainable partnership for the future of Nigeria’s energy industry.