The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) has praised Aliko Dangote for launching the country’s first indigenous refinery, crediting it with shielding Nigerians from fuel shortages amid escalating global tensions.
In a press statement issued by IPMAN’s authentic National President, Chief Dr Kolawole Adewoyin, on behalf of the association’s executives and members—released to mark this year’s May Day celebrations—Dangote was hailed as a “messiah” who has freed the nation from chronic fuel scarcity, price hikes, and related woes.
Chief Adewoyin also extended hearty congratulations to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), all workers across the country, and those in the oil and gas industry on the occasion of Workers’ Day.
“Your tireless dedication powers our economy and keeps the wheels of progress turning, especially in challenging times,” he said, emphasising the synergy between labour and private sector innovation.
“We must give kudos to Aliko Dangote for establishing this refinery,” Chief Adewoyin continued.
“If not for the Dangote Refinery, fuel prices would have soared amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict, which has disrupted global supplies and driven up costs in many countries. Here in Nigeria, however, it has ensured steady product availability for all, stabilising our markets even as international benchmarks climb.”
While condemning past governments’ lack of vision, Chief Adewoyin urged President Bola Tinubu to empower more Nigerians to build refineries, particularly modular ones, and to foster stronger partnerships with labour unions.
“The government must step up and encourage investors in energy and other key sectors,” he added, “so Nigeria can break free from colonial-era dependencies. We were once in bondage, but now we are grateful to Dangote—and to our workers who make it all possible.”