The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has issued a stern warning to individuals and groups allegedly working to destabilize operations at the Dangote Refinery, describing any such actions as a direct threat to Nigeria’s economic survival.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, NANS National President, Olushola Oladoja, said the refinery stands as a beacon of hope for over 200 million Nigerians and must be protected from all forms of sabotage, both domestic and foreign.
Oladoja emphasized that with a refining capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the Dangote Refinery is more than just a private investment, it is a strategic national asset. According to him, Nigeria’s average daily fuel consumption stands at around 550,000 barrels per day, making the facility capable of not only meeting domestic needs but also enabling fuel exports.
“This refinery has the potential to end the era of fuel importation in Nigeria,” he said. “It represents self-sufficiency, economic revival, and national dignity.”
The NANS president called on key industry stakeholders, particularly the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) and the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), to prioritize national interest over personal or organizational gains.
“We will not fold our arms and watch vested interests frustrate this monumental project,” Oladoja declared. “Any group, cartel, or institution attempting to undermine the Dangote Refinery will be met with stiff resistance from Nigerian youths.”
He further lauded business magnate Aliko Dangote for what he called “unmatched patriotism,” applauding the decision to invest billions of dollars in Nigeria rather than taking the project abroad.
“This is not just a refinery; it is a symbol of hope, sovereignty, and economic restoration. It will create thousands of jobs and strengthen our economy for future generations,” Oladoja added.
Background: Brewing Tensions Between Dangote and Oil Unions
The renewed face-off between the Dangote Group and petroleum unions has sparked nationwide concern.
The most recent fallout stems from a September 9, 2025, agreement signed between Dangote and NUPENG, affirming the constitutional right of refinery workers to unionize. The agreement was reached after a government-led intervention aimed at diffusing mounting industrial tension.
However, just two days after the pact was signed, NUPENG accused the Dangote Group of reneging on the deal by allegedly instructing truck drivers to remove union stickers before being allowed to load fuel, an action the union described as harassment and intimidation.
In a swift response, the Dangote Group dismissed the accusations as “cheap blackmail,” insisting that it remains committed to fair labor practices.
The Dangote Refinery, located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos, is Africa’s largest oil refinery and among the biggest in the world. Its full operation is expected to drastically reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products, conserve foreign exchange, and create a new era of energy independence for the country.
As tensions escalate, NANS’ public stance adds a new layer of pressure on both the government and the unions involved.
“This is a battle for Nigeria’s survival. We cannot allow short-sighted interests to mortgage the future of our generation,” Oladoja concluded.
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