Obele Urges NNPCL to Revive Refineries Amid Price Hikes

Dr. Joseph Obele, the National Public Relations Officer of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners, called on the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to prioritize the revival of Nigeria's government-owned refineries. In a statement issued on September 17, 2026, Obele emphasized that restarting the refineries would enhance local fuel supply, reduce reliance on imported petroleum products, and mitigate the financial burden on Nigerians due to rising petrol prices.

He urged the government to ensure full utilization of available refining capacity and support private-sector investment to foster competition in the downstream oil sector. Obele expressed concern over the impact of increasing crude oil prices, particularly due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, warning that higher petroleum prices could exacerbate inflation and financial pressures on households.

He specifically called for the operationalization of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries before the 2027 general elections, highlighting the importance of domestic refining for Nigeria's energy security and economic activity.