The Arewa Youths Initiative for Energy Reforms (AYIFER) has called on the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari, to ensure the timely and quality completion of the Kaduna refinery.
In a statement issued on Friday, the group expressed concerns about the potential for a subpar facility, similar to the controversial Port Harcourt refinery, which has faced criticism from local communities and stakeholders.
AYIFER emphasised the critical importance of the Kaduna refinery to the economic future of northern Nigeria.
The group urged Kyari to resist any temptation to compromise on the quality of the project and deliver a full-fledged, standard petrochemical refinery akin to the Dangote refinery in Lagos.
The statement highlighted the potential negative impact of a substandard refinery on the region, particularly in the context of the decline of other major industries in the north.
While acknowledging the challenges faced by the Port Harcourt refinery, AYIFER expressed confidence in Kyari’s leadership and expertise.
They stressed that the Kaduna refinery represents the region’s last hope for a functional industrial legacy.
The group concluded by offering their support to Kyari and NNPCL, urging them to prioritize the completion of the Kaduna refinery as a vital project for the economic development of northern Nigeria.
