ABUJA: The House of Representatives has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the non-functionality of Nigeria’s state-owned refineries despite spending an estimated $18 billion on their rehabilitation over the past two decades.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Hon. Oluwaseun Whinghan (Badagry Federal Constituency, Lagos State) and adopted during Thursday’s plenary session presided over by Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Nigeria’s four refineries two in Port Harcourt, and one each in Warri and Kaduna are managed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) but have remained moribund despite repeated turnaround maintenance projects and government spending.
Whinghan expressed concern that despite over two decades of rehabilitation efforts and multi-billion-dollar investments, none of the refineries has resumed operation.
He cited comments by industrialist Aliko Dangote and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who both questioned the viability of the facilities and described the investments as wasteful.
He recalled that in 2007, during Obasanjo’s administration, Dangote and other private investors purchased the refineries, but the deal was later revoked under President Umaru Yar’Adua, who opted to continue funding their rehabilitation with public funds a move that has yielded no tangible result.
The lawmaker said Nigerians are outraged that despite consistent budgetary allocations between 2010 and 2024, there is no verifiable evidence of rehabilitation outcomes, describing it as a gross misuse of public funds and a betrayal of trust.
He also referenced NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari’s July 2025 comments distancing the company from past mismanagement while hinting at the possibility of selling the assets.
According to Whinghan, functional refineries are critical for Nigeria’s energy security and economic stability, especially after the removal of fuel subsidy.
Following deliberations, the House mandated its Committees on Petroleum Resources (Upstream, Downstream and Midstream), Gas Resources, and Public Assets to:
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Investigate funds appropriated and disbursed for refinery rehabilitation from 2010 to 2024.
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Ascertain the current operational status of the refineries.
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Identify agencies and individuals responsible for any mismanagement or infractions.
The committees are to report back within four weeks for further legislative action.
