Nigerian landlords, under the aegis of the Landlords Voice Association of Nigeria (LAVAN), have called for urgent action from the Federal Government to repair the country’s existing refineries.
This, they believe, will help mitigate the worsening economic hardship caused by the soaring price of petrol.
LAVAN expressed concern that Nigerians are suffering severely due to the continuous rise in fuel prices, warning that spontaneous public reactions could occur if the government fails to take serious measures to find a lasting solution.
The association also urged the Federal Government to grant licenses to state governments interested in establishing their own refineries. LAVAN noted that having more refineries would not only boost fuel production but also create numerous job opportunities across the nation.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, the National President of LAVAN, Pastor Falola Vincent Ogidan, stressed that Nigeria must end its dependence on imported petroleum products if it wants to survive as a nation.
He argued that the practice of exporting crude oil only to re-import the finished products is no longer viable and does not serve the best interests of the country or its citizens.
LAVAN also called on the National Assembly to take the issue of Nigeria’s refineries more seriously than ever. The group warned that failing to address the high cost of living caused by fuel prices would have dire consequences and urged policymakers to adopt targeted efforts and productive policies to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
Additionally, LAVAN emphasised the importance of supporting the Dangote Refinery, noting that the positive impact of the country’s only functioning refinery should be leveraged to benefit the economy rather than neglected.
Ogidan said: “We cannot continue to be slaves to foreign powers. We need to be intentional and purposeful in improving the living conditions of our people. The government knows what needs to be done. We have four refineries in this country, why aren’t they working? It is no longer in our national interest to export crude oil and import refined petroleum products.
“As a way forward, the Federal Government should issue licences to state governments to build more refineries. Our people are suffering too much and we cannot continue to do things the same way.”
“Also, the government must support the success of the Dangote Refinery. Whatever the case may be, that refinery is the only functioning one in Nigeria and it has created numerous job opportunities. It must be supported.”
LAVAN also appealed to the leadership of the National Assembly, urging the Senate President and the Speaker of the House of Representatives to prioritise the interests of Nigerians in resolving the fuel crisis.
Ogidan added: “They are in charge of the people’s parliament and Nigerians expect a lot from them. They must find a way to engage with the presidency to resolve this fuel crisis that is causing so much suffering.
“It is crucial that our elected officials work to ease the economic hardship caused by their policies. The 2027 elections are not far off and Nigerians will no longer be swayed by sentiments. They will demand results.”
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