The 36 state governors of Nigeria have expressed their frustration over the country’s dependence on imported petrol, calling it “shameful” for an oil-rich OPEC member. The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), led by the Governor of Imo State Hope Uzodimma, criticised Nigeria’s reliance on foreign petroleum, urging immediate action on domestic refining during a press briefing following their recent meeting in Abuja.
Uzodimma emphasised the need for a “homegrown solution” to Nigeria’s energy needs, referencing the new Dangote Refinery as a step in the right direction and calling for the revitalisation of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries. “As an oil-producing nation, importing petroleum products is an aberration. We should be producing our own fuel,” he remarked. He added that refining petrol locally would create jobs, curb unemployment, reduce crime, and strengthen Nigeria’s economy.
The governors also proposed that petroleum products should be sold in naira, aiming to make fuel more accessible and affordable for Nigerians. They pledged to support President Bola Tinubu’s administration in addressing the ongoing economic and security challenges, including efforts to combat issues such as banditry and kidnapping.