By Dave Agboola
The Dangote Refinery has been a topic of discussion in recent times, with many naysayers trying to sabotage the project. It’s no secret that some individuals and groups are not happy about the emergence of a local refinery that will challenge their decades-long exploitation of Nigeria.
The recent controversy surrounding the refinery’s diesel production is a clear example of this sabotage. Despite the refinery’s efforts to produce high-quality diesel that meets international standards, some individuals and groups have been spreading false information to discredit the project.
Oh joy, let me just contain my excitement about defending a project owned by the infamous monopolist, Aliko Dangote. I mean, who doesn’t love a good oligarch, right? But seriously, as much as I dislike Dangote’s business practices and the fact that he’s basically the sole beneficiary of Nigeria’s economy, I have to admit that this refinery project is not something we should be playing politics with.
I mean, come on, people! Let’s not be ridiculous. We’re talking about a project that has the potential to transform our economy, create jobs, and reduce our reliance on imported fuel. And yet, we’re here debating whether or not it’s a good idea? Give me a break!
And don’t even get me started on the so-called “concerns” about the project’s quality. Oh please, spare me the drama. We all know that the only reason some people are against this project is because it’s owned by Dangote. If it were anyone else, they’d be singing its praises. Or better still, may be the need to continue siphoning money in the name of subsidy is their sole reason for pulling down this great project. That’s obvious enough though!
But let’s be real, folks. This project is not about Dangote; it’s about Nigeria’s future. And if we’re going to let our personal biases and political agendas get in the way of progress, then we’re never going to move forward.
The gospel truth is that the Dangote Refinery is a game-changer for Nigeria and Africa. The refinery’s diesel production has been tested and proven to be of high quality, with a sulfur content of 77ppm, which is far below the Euro-V standard. The flashpoint of the diesel is also high, indicating less contamination and a lower risk of flammability.
Despite these facts, some individuals and groups continue to spread false information to undermine the project. They claim that the refinery’s diesel production is of poor quality and will harm the environment. However, these claims are baseless and only serve to demonstrate their selfish interests.
It’s clear that these naysayers are afraid of the competition that the Dangote Refinery will bring. They are afraid that a local refinery will challenge their dominance in the oil and gas sector and reduce their profits. However, their selfish interests should not be allowed to sabotage a project that has the potential to transform Nigeria’s economy.
So, by all means, let’s criticize Dangote’s business practices and his stranglehold on our economy. But let’s not conflate that with this project. It’s time to put our country first and our personal feelings second.
And to those who are still opposed to the project, I say, get over yourselves. This is not about Dangote; it’s about Nigeria. And if you can’t see that, then I feel sorry for you.
The Dangote Refinery is, no doubt, symbol of Nigeria’s potential and a testament to the country’s ability to produce high-quality products. It’s a project that should be supported and encouraged, not sabotaged by selfish individuals and groups.
As the refinery prepares to commence operations, it’s important to remember that the success of this project is crucial for Nigeria’s economic growth and development. We should not allow naysayers to kill the Dangote Refinery with their false information and selfish interests.
Instead, we should support the refinery and encourage it to continue producing high-quality products that meet international standards. The Dangote Refinery is a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s economy, and we should do everything possible to ensure its success.
Let’s stop playing politics with this project and focus on what really matters – Nigeria’s future. We can’t afford to let our personal biases, selfish interests and agendas hold us back any longer. It’s time to move forward, and if that means supporting a project owned by Dangote, then so be it!
Dave Agboola is Special Adviser to the Speaker, Lagos State House of Assembly_
