The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria has identified Federal Government’s interference as responsible for the slow growth of the oil and gas sector. It expatiated that the political meddling in the sector affects the capacity of local refineries to function effectively and also hinders the development of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation.
The National Public Relations Officer of PENGASSAN, Mr. Emmanuel Ojugbana, stated that over the years, past governments had too much control over the administration of the NNPC and how its oil facilities were run. He added that the association would want the present administration to depart from the practice of previous governments which he claimed maintained a stranglehold on the refineries.
He also criticised the frequent change of the NNPC’s group managing director, saying such was unhealthy for the growth of the oil and gas sector.
Ojugbana further said if the four existing refineries were properly funded, they would operate at a maximum level, noting that it would not be in the interest of the country to sell them.
According to him, apart from the challenge of turnaround maintenance, lack of adequate and regular supply of crude, which is the main feedstock, is another major impediment to the efficient and effective operation of the refineries.
