Bayo Ojulari, Group CEO of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), has assured that Nigeria’s government-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna will be fully operational, pushing back against skepticism from industry figures.

Speaking at the PENGASSAN Energy and Labour Summit in Abuja, Ojulari emphasized that the nation’s energy future is more important than individual opinions. His remarks came after Aliko Dangote suggested that the NNPC refineries, which have cost the government around $18 billion, might never function properly.

Ojulari clarified that the NNPC has no intention of selling the refineries. Instead, the company is focused on “high-grade rehabilitation,” following extensive technical and financial reviews to ensure the plants operate efficiently.

“The success of Nigeria comes before any individual’s viewpoint,” he said. “We are committed to getting these refineries working again.”

He also acknowledged past management errors, such as reopening the Port Harcourt refinery before completing repairs, calling those decisions uneconomical. Ojulari added that the ongoing plans include partnerships that could speed up the restoration process.

While the Port Harcourt refinery has remained closed since May for maintenance, Ojulari stressed that work is progressing on all three facilities. Despite calls from marketers and private-sector groups to sell the refineries, he warned that privatization could reduce their long-term value.

The statement highlights the government’s determination to revive the refineries, even as Dangote’s private refinery continues to expand its role in Nigeria’s fuel market.