The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has dismissed a recent report claiming it has ceased importing refined petroleum products, instead relying solely on supplies from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and other local refineries, as a misrepresentation and misinterpretation of the facts.
On Tuesday, some news platforms attributed statements to NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, suggesting an end to fuel importation. Kyari had spoken at the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists conference in Lagos, themed: “Resolving the Nigerian Energy Trilemma: Energy Security, Sustainable Growth and Affordability.”
In response, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Femi Soneye, issued a statement clarifying that while Kyari’s words were correctly quoted, the report contained inaccuracies and misrepresentations.
“While your report quotes the GCEO’s exact words in several instances, you have inserted interpretations that misrepresent the context and meaning of the statement. This misrepresentation has created a false narrative that deviates significantly from the facts,” Soneye said.
He described the inclusion of inaccurate assertions in Kyari’s statement as unfortunate and urged media organisations to conduct due diligence when reporting on sensitive national matters.
“I write to request the right of reply regarding the misrepresentation of the GCEO’s statement on fuel importation in your coverage of the NAPE Conference. Your article, published on November 12, 2024, and titled ‘NNPCL Ends N24tn Fuel Import, Buys from Dangote Refinery,’ contains factually inaccurate assertions,” Soneye added.
He clarified that Kyari’s statement, “Today, NNPC does not import any product; we are only taking from domestic refineries,” should not be interpreted to mean NNPCL is solely sourcing from local refineries or has ended fuel importation.
“While NNPC prioritises sourcing products from domestic refineries, this is contingent upon economic viability. If local supply is cost-effective, it will be preferred, but the same principle applies to other marketers, who will also evaluate total costs when deciding whether to buy locally or import.”
Soneye emphasised that economic viability would determine NNPCL’s decision to source refined petroleum domestically or through imports, and there was no mention by Kyari of ending fuel importation or any reference to N24 trillion in the report.
He added, “It is also essential to note that the authority to grant import licences resides with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), as mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA). NNPC Ltd. does not have control over more than 30% of the market, as stipulated by the PIA, which aims to prevent monopolies.”
“The law promotes a free-market system where competition drives efficiency and cost reduction, ensuring that consumers benefit. Domestic refiners must compete on price and value, as patronage cannot be legislated in a deregulated sector.”
Soneye further explained that NNPC Ltd is making significant investments in Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure to support broader energy security and affordability goals, cautioning against further distortion of facts, especially regarding sensitive national energy security issues.
“However, I must express concern over a recurring trend of deliberate distortions and mischaracterisation in some of your recent reports. While we understand that errors can occur, it is imperative that your reporters seek clarification when in doubt, especially on issues of national importance. Misleading narratives undermine public trust and the integrity of your reputable newspaper,” he added.
“I urge you to prioritise accuracy in your reporting and educate your team on the importance of seeking clarity before publishing sensitive content. A more cautious approach will benefit both your readership and the reputation of your publication.”
