Nigeria to Achieve Fuel Self-Sufficiency by July, Says Akpabio

 

Nigerian Senate President, Godswill Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has assured Nigerians that the country will become self-sufficient in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) production by July 2024. Speaking at the South-South APC conference in Calabar, Cross River State, Akpabio commended President Bola Tinubu for the bold decision to remove the fuel subsidy, emphasizing that the temporary hardships will soon be alleviated.

 

Surveillance of Refineries Confirms Progress 

Akpabio shared insights from his visits to various refineries, particularly highlighting the Dangote refinery. He noted that the facility is on track to make Nigeria self-sufficient in PMS production by July 2024. "I toured the Dangote refinery and found out that by this July 2024, Nigeria is poised to become self-sufficient in the production of PMS," Akpabio stated. He added that the refinery is already producing sufficient diesel for export and similarly achieving success with fertilizer and urea production.

 

Economic Reforms and Minimum Wage Negotiations 

The Senate President also addressed the ongoing negotiations regarding the minimum wage, promising a resolution soon. "We will conclude negotiations on the minimum wage shortly, and Nigerians will be pleased with the outcome," he assured.

 

Akpabio acknowledged the challenging economic conditions inherited by the current administration, describing it as a "foamy economy." Despite these challenges, he praised President Tinubu's unwavering commitment to improving the country's economic situation. "The President consistently tells me, ‘I cannot complain; I campaigned and danced for this job, so I must do it and I must do it well,’" Akpabio recounted.

 

Key Highlights:

• Fuel Self-Sufficiency: Nigeria set to become self-sufficient in PMS production by July 2024.
• Dangote Refinery: Plays a pivotal role in achieving fuel production goals; already exporting diesel and producing fertilizer and urea.
• Economic Reforms: Ongoing efforts to stabilize and improve the economy, including minimum wage negotiations.
• Presidential Commitment: President Tinubu’s dedication to addressing Nigeria's economic challenges.