Senate has reaffirmed its readiness to address the persistent challenges confronting Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Chairman of the Senate Committee on the Downstream Sector, Senator Sulaiman Kawu Sumaila, in Abuja.
Senator Sumaila explained that the committee’s intervention is part of its ongoing efforts to implement resolutions reached during its recent retreat and in line with its Strategic Action Work Plan.
He revealed that the committee would soon conduct an investigative hearing to examine the key issues affecting the sector and propose practical solutions.
According to him, the hearing has become necessary due to lingering concerns surrounding the operations of private and government-owned refineries, as well as independent marketers.
The committee will also address ongoing disputes involving the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), and other labour stakeholders.
Senator Sumaila further highlighted that the probe would cover issues related to crude oil supply obligations, regulatory overlaps, labour rights, transparency, and competitiveness in the sector.
He assured that the committee is committed to ensuring a fair, transparent, and inclusive process where all stakeholders including refinery owners, regulators, labour unions, civil society groups, and other interested parties, will have the opportunity to present their positions and make recommendations.
The lawmaker emphasized that the ultimate goal is to promote stability, accountability, and efficiency within the downstream petroleum industry for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Rel/Bashir M
