Growing public outrage has erupted across Nigeria as citizens continue to question the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) under the leadership of Group CEO Mr. Olalekan Ojulari, following the persistent shutdown of the country’s refineries despite billions of naira allegedly spent on their rehabilitation.
Frustration is mounting as hopes for domestic fuel production remain unfulfilled, even after repeated assurances from NNPCL officials and government stakeholders that the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries would resume operations by now. Instead, Nigerians are faced with continued fuel importation, rising pump prices, and the economic strain of foreign exchange pressure.
“What exactly are we paying for?” asked a commuter in Lagos. “They keep approving billions for repairs, yet nothing changes. We are tired of the promises and zero delivery.”
The public’s reaction follows fresh reports that the multi-billion-naira Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) projects, initiated under successive administrations, have yet to deliver a single barrel of refined product. Transparency advocates and energy analysts are also calling for a full audit into the contracts awarded for the repairs.
“We demand full disclosure of all the funds spent and measurable timelines from the current NNPCL leadership,” said Aisha Bello, an oil and gas policy expert. “Nigerians cannot continue to be burdened by systemic inefficiency masked with corporate rebranding.”
Critics argue that under Ojulari’s tenure, the NNPCL has failed to show clear, verifiable progress despite public relations campaigns suggesting reform and modernization. While the company claims work is still ongoing, many believe the prolonged silence on operational deadlines further erodes public trust.
The shutdown of Nigeria’s refineries has had deep implications — from escalating fuel prices to missed job creation opportunities and weakening national energy security. As public discontent grows, civil society organizations are demanding that the Federal Government initiate an independent investigation into the status of the refinery projects and hold those responsible accountable.