Dr. Obele Calls for Refineries Restart Amid Rising Petrol Prices

Dr. Joseph Obele, an energy expert and the National Public Relations Officer of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), called on the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to urgently restart Nigeria's government-owned refineries. This appeal was made in a press statement on September 17, 2026, in response to the rising cost of petroleum products, with petrol prices hitting N1,500.

Obele stated that restoring production at these refineries would enhance domestic supply, reduce reliance on imported refined products, and stabilize the downstream petroleum market. He noted that the prolonged inactivity of these refineries has economic implications, affecting employment and business activities across the petroleum value chain.

Obele warned that rising international crude oil prices, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, could further pressure local prices. He emphasized that restarting the refineries before the 2027 general elections would be crucial for Nigeria's energy security and public confidence in the government's commitment to reviving national assets.