Murray-Bruce Urges Tinubu to Revive Nigeria's Refineries

Ben Murray-Bruce, founder of Silverbird Group and former senator representing Bayelsa East from 2015 to 2019, has called on President Bola Tinubu to address the state of Nigeria’s government-owned refineries: Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna. He expressed concern over Nigeria's ongoing practice of exporting crude oil while importing refined products, despite the country’s significant oil reserves and past investments in refinery rehabilitation.

In a statement made via his X handle, Murray-Bruce urged Tinubu to appoint a capable manager for the refineries, emphasizing the need for individuals who prioritize results over popularity. On August 13, 2026, Tinubu had stated his administration's commitment to reviving the refineries, focusing on productivity rather than mere activity.

Murray-Bruce criticized the government's past excuses regarding refinery maintenance and called for a national obsession with making these refineries operational and commercially viable.