Energy experts, operating under the banner of the Arewa Youths Initiative for Energy Reforms (AYIFER), have urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to expedite the reopening of the Kaduna Refinery. The group emphasised that sustainable energy reform in Nigeria hinges on making the refinery operational, which would stabilise fuel supply and reduce the nation’s reliance on imported petroleum products.
This call comes in response to the recent reduction in fuel prices by the Dangote Refinery, which announced a price adjustment at its filling stations on 26th February 2025. The retail prices at stations operated by Dangote’s official off-takers—MRS, Ardova (AP), and Heyden—were set at N860, N865, and N865 per litre, respectively. The company stated that the price cut was aimed at providing financial relief to Nigerians during the Ramadan season.
In a statement signed by Alhaji Bashir Al’Amin, National Coordinator, and Engr. Gideon Yakubu, General Secretary, AYIFER praised Dangote for alleviating the economic strain on Nigerians through its pricing strategy. The group highlighted Dangote’s pivotal role in breaking NNPCL’s monopoly and revitalising the energy sector.
“If not for Dangote, who challenged the system, we would still be purchasing fuel at N2,000 per litre today,” the statement read. “Dangote’s intervention has also spurred the rehabilitation of the long-abandoned Port Harcourt and Warri refineries. Corruption in the sector has significantly reduced, and those involved in importing adulterated or substandard fuel are being forced out of business. Importers are now losing an estimated N75 billion monthly* due to these reforms.”
AYIFER also stressed the importance of reviving the Kaduna Refinery, describing it as a critical legacy for the northern region. “The Kaduna Refinery is the only surviving legacy for us in the North. We urge NNPCL to prioritise making it operational as a matter of urgency,” the statement added.
The group’s appeal underscores the growing demand for local refining capacity to ensure energy security and economic stability in Nigeria. With Dangote leading the charge in transforming the sector, the pressure is now on NNPCL to follow suit and bring the Kaduna Refinery back online.
