PETROAN Tasks Govt On Stronger Oil Pipelines Security To Boost Crude Production

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has advised the Federal government to consolidate and strengthen pipeline security architecture to boost and increase Nigeria’s crude oil production.

The association observed efforts by the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bashir Bayo Ojulari, in boosting crude oil production and strengthening the value chain across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations, over the last one year.

The national president of PETROAN, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, described the NNPCL GCEO’s first year in office as “a defining period that has restored confidence in the operations of NNPCL and demonstrated a clear commitment to reform and institutional strengthening.”

Dr. Gillis-Harry noted that the renewed emphasis on transparency and accountability, including the publication of operational and financial reports, represents a major shift towards global best practices, adding that such measures are critical in rebuilding trust among industry stakeholders and investors.

He noted that Ojulari’s one year in office is marked by bold reforms, improved transparency, and renewed operational efficiency in the oil and gas sector.

According to Gillis-Harry, over the past year, PETROAN has observed significant strides in the management of NNPCL, particularly in the areas of governance, accountability, and commercial discipline. The introduction of structured financial and operational reporting systems has enhanced stakeholder confidence and repositioned the company in line with global best practices.

Billy Harry note with appreciation the renewed focus on revamping Nigeria’s refining capacity through strategic partnerships, alongside ongoing efforts geared towards the start-up and optimal functioning of government-owned refineries.

PETROAN believes that the timely operationalisation of these refineries remains critical to achieving energy security and reducing the nation’s dependence on imported petroleum products.

The organisation acknowledges the positive impact of these reforms on product availability and distribution, though we recognize that challenges still exist in pricing stability and supply consistency. We therefore encourage sustained engagement with industry players to ensure that the benefits of these reforms are fully felt at the retail end.

PETROAN urged the NNPCL leadership to deepen inclusiveness in policy implementation, especially in areas affecting product allocation, logistics, and infrastructure development. Greater collaboration with retail outlet owners will enhance efficiency and promote seamless delivery of petroleum products nationwide.

He stated that while the progress recorded is commendable, there is a need to sustain the momentum through inclusive policies and stakeholder-driven initiatives that will guarantee long-term stability, efficiency, and growth in Nigeria’s petroleum downstream sector.

To ensure sustainable crude management and value chain growth, he urged immediate commencement of production at the Port Harcourt Refinery and Warri Refinery to enhance local refining capacity and reduce dependence on imports.

The association called for improved stakeholder engagement through regular consultations and inclusive decision-making processes across the downstream sector.

“The GCEO should find time to undertake operational visits to the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries to assess progress firsthand, engage with stakeholders on ground, and reinforce commitment to their timely and sustainable functionality.

“Improve the volume of crude oil allocated to local refineries to enhance domestic refining capacity, reduce import dependency, and stabilize the supply of petroleum products in the country.

“While applauding the achievements recorded so far, we call for continued commitment to transparency, fairness, and stakeholder participation in critical decisions within the sector, including issues surrounding pipeline security and equitable distribution of opportunities among host communities.

“PETROAN reaffirms its support for reforms that promote sustainability, efficiency, and growth in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. We remain optimistic that under the leadership of Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, NNPCL will continue on the path of transformation for the benefit of all Nigerians,” he added.