Ex- Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has made fresh assertions about the management of government-owned refineries in Nigeria, criticizing the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) and raising concerns about its capacity to operate the refineries effectively.

In an interview with Channels Television, published on Thursday, Obasanjo questioned recent claims by President Bola Tinubu’s administration that the refineries have resumed operations.

He expressed skepticism, using a Yoruba proverb to emphasize that those who lie about their accomplishments will eventually be forced to confront the truth.

Shell’s Rejection and a Missed Opportunity
Obasanjo recalled his efforts during his presidency to involve Shell in managing the nation’s refineries. Despite his offer, Shell declined, citing concerns about the operational inefficiency and political challenges surrounding the facilities.

He also shed light on a missed opportunity in 2007 when billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote and his team offered $750 million to manage the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP). Obasanjo negotiated the deal, only for his successor to reject it and refund Dangote’s investment. The rejection, according to Obasanjo, was based on assurances from the NNPCL that it could handle the refineries. However, Obasanjo firmly asserted that the corporation lacked the expertise and capacity to fulfill such promises.

Despite his criticism of the NNPCL, Obasanjo expressed faith in Dangote’s ability to manage the privately owned Dangote Refinery in Lagos. Highlighting Dangote’s track record as an entrepreneur, Obasanjo noted that private sector-led initiatives are often more efficient and less burdened by bureaucratic challenges than government-run enterprises.

Refineries and Nigeria’s Oil Sector
Obasanjo’s remarks reignite longstanding debates about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s approach to managing its oil sector. Many observers argue that government-owned refineries have struggled due to poor maintenance, mismanagement, and corruption. While privatization and public-private partnerships have been proposed as solutions, successive administrations have often resisted such measures, citing concerns over national sovereignty and control.

The Bigger Picture
Obasanjo’s criticism comes at a time when Nigerians are grappling with high fuel prices and economic challenges. His statements could further fuel discussions on the need for structural reforms in the oil and gas sector. Meanwhile, the success of the Dangote Refinery, expected to be a game-changer for Nigeria’s refining capacity, may serve as a benchmark for what private sector participation can achieve.

This candid reflection by the former president underscores the importance of leadership, transparency, and innovation in addressing Nigeria’s long-standing energy challenges.