Restart idle refineries, PETROAN urges govt

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and the federal government have been urged to restart government-owned refineries due to escalating petroleum prices. Dr. Joseph Obele, the National Public Relations Officer for the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners, made this call in a statement on Thursday, emphasizing that restarting domestic refining would alleviate supply issues and minimize reliance on imports.

He highlighted that the recent surge in petroleum prices, partly driven by global tensions between the U.S. and Iran, has put pressure on Nigerians. Brent crude and West Texas Intermediate prices reached approximately $105.83 and $102.43 per barrel, respectively, as of September 16, 2026. As a result, petrol prices were between N1,400 and N1,500 per liter, while diesel prices exceeded N2,000 per liter.

Obele urged the government and NNPC to activate production at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, stressing the significance of domestic refining in addressing the escalating costs of petroleum products. He advised that restarting refineries before the 2027 general elections would bolster Nigeria's energy security and public trust in the government.

Obele, an Eleme indigene from Ogoni, emphasized the importance of genuine consultation and inclusivity in resuming oil exploration activities in Ogoniland, urging all stakeholders to engage meaningfully and resolve outstanding concerns peacefully.