Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said concerns raised by Dangote Refinery over government-imposed petrol prices support his proposal for a production subsidy aimed at reducing fuel costs for Nigerians.
Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, made the statement on Friday, September 11, 2026, through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.
The former vice president accused the Tinubu administration of misrepresenting his proposed subsidy model in an attempt to discredit it.
Atiku Explains His Production Subsidy Plan
Atiku argued that Dangote Refinery was right to oppose any government policy that would force private refineries to sell petrol below production costs.
According to him, his proposal is designed to prevent such a situation by supporting domestic fuel production rather than subsidising imported petrol.
He maintained that the government should create a system that makes local refining commercially viable while ensuring that Nigerians benefit from the country's crude oil resources through more affordable fuel.
The former vice president also stressed the importance of protecting investments in Dangote Refinery, modular refineries and other domestic refining projects.
Call for More Refineries and Competition
Atiku said Nigeria needs more refineries, increased investment and stronger competition in the petroleum sector.
He argued that supporting local refining would help reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and allow Nigerians to benefit more directly from the country's oil resources.
The proposal comes amid continuing debate over how the government can reduce petrol prices without placing unsustainable financial pressure on private refineries.
The Debate Over Fuel Subsidy
The controversy highlights the challenge of balancing affordable petrol prices with the financial sustainability of domestic refineries.
While Atiku supports a production subsidy model, the government has faced criticism over the potential cost of fuel subsidies and their impact on public finances.
The former vice president's latest statement is expected to further fuel discussions about Nigeria's petroleum policy and the future of domestic fuel production.
Source: Daily Post Nigeria
Atiku: Dangote Refinery Warning Vindicates My Production Subsidy Proposal Former Vice President
0 Comments
Thanks so much for your comment