Kano Chamber Of Commerce Tasks FG On Corruption In Oil Sector
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) has urged the Federal Government to take decisive steps to address corruption in the oil sector.
The President of the Chamber,Amb. Hassan Darma, made the call while addressing journalists in Kano on Friday.
Darma cited allegations of corruption against a former Group Managing Director of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), noting that Nigerians had yet to receive clear explanations or resolutions on the matter.
He emphasized that transparency and accountability are crucial for restoration of confidence in the economy.
He called for urgent and amicable resolution of the prolonged dispute between the Federal Government and the Dangote Group,dismissing claims that the Dangote Group seeks to monopolize the oil and gas sector, describing such allegations as untrue and capable of discouraging indigenous investors.
The President explained that as key stakeholders and “economic gladiators” in the country, KACCIMA and other private sector players have the responsibility to speak out against policies and actions that threatened local investments.
He noted that protecting indigenous investors is essential for sustainable economic growth,urging the Federal Government to create a more enabling environment for local investors.
He then expressed concern over the Federal Government’s recent issuance of licenses for importation of petroleum products, pointing out that Dangote Refinery has the capacity to supply Nigeria and other countries with the refined petroleum products.
According to Amb.Darma, Dangote Group remains one of the leading indigenous business entities in Nigeria, providing employment opportunities to thousands of Nigerians across various sectors of the economy, “so any attempt to sabotage it would have negative impact on the Nation.”
He also warned that the unresolved issues surrounding the refinery could negatively affect the company’s operations and may eventually force it to scale down its workforce.