The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has urged Nigerians to recognize the role of the Dangote Refinery in supporting the country’s fuel supply.

Speaking at the International Energy Summit 2026 in Abuja on Wednesday, Ojulari described the 650,000-barrel-per-day facility as a key relief to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. While the refinery does not yet meet the nation’s full domestic fuel needs, he noted that its operations have significantly reduced the country’s exposure to supply disruptions.

“Whether you love Dangote or you hate him, say whatever you want, Nigerians should thank God for Dangote. It gives us a breathing space,” Ojulari told the audience to loud applause. He added that having a Nigerian-owned refinery is a strategic advantage for the country.

Ojulari also stressed that the NNPCL’s approach is focused on collaboration rather than confrontation with privately owned refineries. “Our strategy is to work together with the Dangote Refinery and maximize the value delivered to Nigerians,” he said.

His remarks come amid a recent increase in petrol prices nationwide. In Abuja, fuel now sells between N839 and N905 per litre following adjustments by Dangote Refinery and other depot operators.

The NNPCL CEO highlighted that ongoing cooperation with private refineries is central to Nigeria’s energy strategy, providing the country with a cushion against fuel shortages while supporting broader sector growth.