Dangote-NMDPRA Feud: PENGASSAN Calls for Strong Institutions to Protect Nigeria’s Oil Sector

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has called for stronger institutions in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector amid ongoing disputes between Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, and the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). PENGASSAN President Festus Osifo urged caution over broad sabotage claims, emphasizing that regulatory and operational issues should be addressed through robust institutions rather than targeting individuals.

Dangote recently accused former NMDPRA Chief Executive Farouk Ahmed of personal misconduct, alleging he spent around $5 million on his children’s schooling in Switzerland. Dangote has demanded a full investigation and public explanation of the payments, while also claiming his refinery has suffered $82 million in losses due to theft and sabotage, including the removal of critical equipment.

Osifo described the term “sabotage” as broad and potentially harmful to the sector. He stressed that generalized accusations could disrupt operations and called for detailed investigations to identify specific causes and actors. “Sabotage could mean a lot of things. But you come down to say X is doing this, Y is doing this, and it will affect our industry,” he said, highlighting the need for clarity over sensational claims.

The PENGASSAN president also emphasized the importance of regulatory strength, stating that institutions like NMDPRA and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission must be solid, capable, and cooperative with businesses. He described the Dangote Refinery as “a source of pride for Nigeria” and stressed that its success depends on collaboration between management and regulators to ensure compliance and sustainable growth.

Finally, Osifo called for sector-wide alignment under the Minister of Petroleum Resources, balancing the interests of local refiners and importers to guarantee energy security. He urged all stakeholders to convene and make decisions that benefit not only the industry but all Nigerians, reinforcing that institutional reform must take precedence over individual blame in resolving disputes like the Dangote-NMDPRA feud.

source: punch