The leadership of the apex body of Nigerian students at home and in the Diaspora, the Nigeria National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), recently paid a privileged visit to the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical in Lekki Free Zone, Lagos.
The delegation was warmly received by the Vice-President of the Dangote Refinery in person of Engr. Devakumar V.G. Edwin.
Impressed by the vast capacity of the refinery, the delegation led by Senator Akinteye, President of the Senate, NANS Headquarters called on the Federal Government to take decisive action to maximize the benefits of the remarkable facility for the nation.
Comrade Akinteye said, “Specifically, we demand an immediate ban on the importation of diesel. Given the refinery’s capacity to produce high-quality diesel domestically, this measure will not only support local production but also conserve foreign exchange and boost the economy.
“Furthermore, we urge the Federal Government to issue a directive instructing all petroleum marketers to prioritize the purchase of refined products from the Dangote Refinery.”
According to NANS, local patronage and purchase will ensure that the nation’s refined product needs are met locally, fostering economic growth and dependence on imports.
“The Dangote Refinery represents a monumental achievement in Nigeria’s industrial sector, and its full potential must be harnessed for the benefit of the country.
“NANS stands firmly in support of measures that will promote self-sufficiency, economic development, and environmental sustainability,” Comrade Akinteye added.
The delegation was conducted on an extensive tour lasting nearly five hours. The tour allowed NANS Executive to fully appreciate the immense scale and advanced capabilities of this world-class facility.
The Dangote Refinery, one of the largest in the world, is equipped with the latest laboratory technology, including cutting-edge equipment that surpasses those found in many other refineries globally. It can produce Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Diesel and other refined products that cannot only meet Nigeria’s domestic needs but also serve international markets.
Additionally, the refinery produces high-quality fertilizers for farmers, further contributing to the agricultural sector.
Impressively, the Dangote Refinery generates its electricity, with a capacity sufficient to power an entire region in Nigeria. This self-sufficiency in energy production is a testament to the advanced infrastructure and operational excellence of the refinery.
The team was thrilled by the refinery’s robust waste management strategies, which include innovative methods to recycle waste and mitigate the environmental impact of industrial activities on the surrounding communities.
