Gbenga Hashim Promises Support for Nigerian Refineries

Dr. Gbenga Hashim, the Accord presidential candidate, declared that his administration would support Nigerian refineries, including Dangote Refinery, by providing access to locally produced crude oil at strategic domestic prices. This initiative aims to give Nigerian refineries a competitive edge in sub-regional markets and transform Nigeria into a global energy power.

Hashim made these statements during the Diaspora Dialogue in Ilorin, Kwara State, addressing the rising petrol prices and pressures on global energy markets. He criticized Nigeria's historical approach of treating crude oil primarily as an export commodity, advocating for an "Energy First" policy to leverage crude oil as a foundation for national industrial power.

The policy will allow Nigerian refineries to purchase crude at local prices, fostering competitiveness and expansion. Hashim emphasized that this strategy is not designed to favor any single company but to create multiple Nigerian energy champions.

He also proposed increasing domestic refining capacity by one million barrels per day within three years through government investment and joint ventures.