The Arewa Youths Initiative For Energy Reforms (AYIFER) has issued a passionate appeal to the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari.
The group urged Kyari to ensure that the rehabilitation of the Kaduna Refinery is executed to world-class standards.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Alhaji Bashir Al’Amin, and General Secretary, Mr. Gideon Yakubu, AYIFER emphasized that the north’s economic future hinges on the refinery’s successful completion.
The youths specifically requested Kyari to avoid delivering what they described as a subpar “blending plant” similar to the Port Harcourt Refinery.
“We do not want the Kaduna Refinery to become a repetition of the Port Harcourt experience,” the group declared.
They claimed that the Port Harcourt Refinery, despite its reopening, has faced criticism from host communities and stakeholders for its performance.
A Call for Excellence
The group likened their expectations for Kaduna to the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, a privately owned facility celebrated for its advanced capabilities.
“Kyari must deliver a standard and functional petrochemical refinery,” AYIFER insisted.
According to the statement, the refinery represents one of the last remaining industrial legacies in the north, following the collapse of several key industries like the Kano groundnut pyramids, Kaduna textiles, and PAN car manufacturing plant.
“Our hopes as northerners lie in the successful completion and inauguration of crude production at the Kaduna Refinery,” the group noted.
Optimism Despite Concerns
AYIFER expressed confidence in Kyari’s expertise and leadership.
“We believe in Mallam Mele Kyari, a seasoned geologist and explorationist, to address these concerns at the right time,” they stated.
However, they warned Kyari against being misled by what they called “sycophants” and advised him to resist temptations that might tarnish his legacy.
“He should resist anything that could jeopardize his good image. If he fails, we all fail,” the statement cautioned.
A Region’s Economic Revival
The group highlighted the socio-economic impact of the refinery on the north.
They lamented the decline of industries that once thrived in the region, attributing rising unemployment and economic stagnation to the collapse of these establishments.
“Since the extinction of groundnut pyramids in Kano and the Kaduna refinery becoming moribund, many of our youths have lost their jobs,” the group said.
The refinery’s rehabilitation, they argued, could restore economic opportunities for thousands of northerners.
Prayers and Promises
AYIFER pledged its support for Kyari, describing him as a blessing to the region.
“We are praying for him and will celebrate him when he meets our expectations,” they affirmed.
The group expressed hope that the refinery’s successful completion would mark the beginning of a new industrial era for the north.
“Insha Allah, we are optimistic that Kyari will deliver on this critical project,” they concluded.
A Reputation at Stake
This appeal comes amid mounting scrutiny of NNPCL’s recent projects, particularly the rehabilitation of refineries.
The Port Harcourt Refinery, reopened earlier this year, has faced backlash over its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Stakeholders have accused the NNPCL of delivering an inferior facility, fueling doubts about the corporation’s capacity to handle major industrial projects.
