The Crude Oil Refinery Owners Association of Nigeria (CORAN) has thrown its weight behind the Senate's decision to investigate the importation of substandard and harmful diesel into the country. The move comes after a senator raised concerns over the continued influx of low-quality diesel and petroleum products into Nigeria.
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who made the call during a plenary session, revealed that 12 diesel cargos containing 660,000 metric tons of diesel were exported by foreign refineries to Togo for distribution in West Africa, with Nigeria being the primary target. The senator lamented that despite the substandard quality of the diesel, it still found its way into the Nigerian market, posing health and environmental risks to citizens.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North senatorial district, supported the motion, highlighting that there are saboteurs within government ranks working to undermine the country's refining capacity. He expressed concern over the continued issuance of import licenses despite Nigeria's sufficient local refining capacity.
Reacting to the Senate's decision, CORAN Chairman Momoh Oyarekhua welcomed the move, stating that it aligns with the association's demands. Oyarekhua noted that CORAN members have been facing numerous challenges due to various obstacles, including insufficient feedstock to meet production capacity at their installed modular refineries.
"We are grateful for the Senate's interest in this matter and look forward to seeing the outcome of their investigation," Oyarekhua said. "We believe that collaboration between the legislature, executive, and stakeholders can resolve these issues before they escalate further."
The Senate's decision to probe substandard diesel importation is seen as a crucial step towards addressing Nigeria's energy crisis. The country's refineries have been operating below capacity due to various challenges, including lack of adequate feedstock and outdated infrastructure.
CORAN's support for the investigation demonstrates its commitment to ensuring that Nigeria's refining capacity is utilized effectively and efficiently.