Devakumar Edwin, VP of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, alleges that International Oil Companies (IOCs) in Nigeria are intentionally frustrating the Dangote Oil Refinery and Petrochemicals’ efforts to purchase local crude oil.

Edwin claims that IOCs are hiking crude prices above market value, forcing the refinery to import crude from countries like the US at a higher cost.

Edwin also accused the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority of indiscriminately issuing licenses for the importation of “dirty” refined products, including diesel and aviation fuel, which contain high levels of sulphur and harmful chemicals.

He noted that the Dangote refinery has been forced to export its products to Europe and other parts of the world due to the lack of support from the government and regulators.

The Dangote official emphasized that the company’s refinery meets international standards and complies with stringent regulations to protect the local environment.

He appealed to the Federal Government and the National Assembly to intervene and ensure the implementation of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to protect Nigeria’s interests.