The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has cautioned against any attempt to sabotage private refineries in the country, warning that it would lead to a nationwide protest by students.
The body said it would not hesitate to take to the streets if the government or any group continued to frustrate the operations of locally owned refineries.
NANS President, Comrade Olushola Oladoja, who made the statement during simultaneous rallies held in Abuja, Lagos, and Asaba, said the student body would occupy federal highways across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory if corrective measures were not implemented. “This is only a warning action. Any further attempt to frustrate policies that support private refineries will lead to total occupation of federal highways by Nigerian students,” he said.
Oladoja expressed concern that Nigeria, despite being an oil-producing nation, still imports petroleum products. He said this dependence on imports continues to harm the economy, increase fuel prices, and limit employment opportunities. “Nigeria is blessed with abundant crude oil, yet we remain a paradoxical importer of refined products due to years of mismanagement and neglect of local refineries,” he added.
He noted that revitalising the refining sector had become a national necessity and urged the government to take immediate steps to stabilise the industry. According to him, the collapse of the textile industry should serve as a lesson on what can happen when local industries are not protected. “If we allow this sabotage to persist, Nigeria may lose another opportunity for industrial recovery and economic growth,” he warned.
The NANS president also called on the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to ensure fair access to crude oil for both public and private refineries. He said the government must create transparent and consistent policies that support refinery operations, attract investors, and protect existing businesses from economic sabotage.
Oladoja reaffirmed that the student body would continue to advocate for economic policies that promote productivity, job creation, and national development. “The Nigerian students’ movement stands for progress and economic stability. We will continue to engage lawfully until we achieve reforms that serve the interest of all citizens,” he stated.