Group backs Naira-for-Crude policy, urges new NNPCL leadership to embrace transparency

The Energy Justice Forum (EJF), a coalition of energy rights activists, has commended President Bola Tinubu for restoring the naira-for-crude policy, describing the move as a patriotic intervention that prioritises local refining and the welfare of everyday Nigerians.

In a statement on Friday, the group said the policy shift is not merely in favour of Dangote Refinery, but a long-overdue step toward strengthening Nigeria’s refining capacity and reducing dependence on dollar-linked fuel imports.

Dr. Godknows Manager, National President of EJF, hailed the decision as “the most patriotic intervention in Nigeria’s petroleum sector in recent history,” and urged the newly appointed leadership of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to align with the president’s reformist direction.

“We must be clear — this policy is not about Dangote alone. It is about restoring value to Nigerians, reviving the refineries in Warri, Port Harcourt, and Kaduna, and ensuring that we are no longer perpetually held hostage by dollar-denominated fuel pricing,” Manager said.

“President Tinubu has restored dignity to our economic sovereignty. For the first time in a long time, there is renewed hope that our natural resources may finally work in favour of the Nigerian people.”

The group also called on the new NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, and Board Chairman, Pius Akinyelure, to chart a bold new course and avoid replicating what it described as “past policy approaches that failed to serve the national interest.”

“It would be a serious mistake for the new NNPCL leadership to continue the same economic strategies that, under the previous management, weakened local refining capacity and exposed the country to foreign exchange instability,” Manager said.

“We are watching closely. Nigerians are watching. Civil society stands ready to resist any regression into old habits that prioritised profit over people.”

He added that Nigerians “deserve transparency, not tokenism; energy justice, not backdoor deals.”

“There must be a clear audit of the previous administration’s tenure — including contracts, crude swaps, and liberalisation agreements. Nigerians are demanding full disclosure and accountability.”

Manager further encouraged the new board to prioritise collaboration with indigenous investors and local engineers to bring Nigeria’s refining ambitions to life.

“We cannot build a sustainable energy future on the back of secrecy and elitist policies. This is a new dawn. The new NNPCL must walk in light, not shadows,” he said.