Key Points
- Oshiomhole hailed the resignations as vital for jobs. He said industry must favour local refining over importation.
- Senator Jimkuta backed Oshiomhole and pressed nominees today. He asked them to explain their reform plans.
- The nominees face Senate screening and tough questions. Lawmakers want clear priorities for local refineries and workers.
The Senate screened President Tinubu’s petroleum nominees on Thursday. Two agency chiefs resigned after pressure and public dispute. Senator Adams Oshiomhole praised their exits and urged action.
President Tinubu named Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan and Saidu Mohammed. ValidUpdates reported the Tinubu nominates new oil regulators yesterday. Oshiomhole said jobs must beat import preference in Nigeria.
Oshiomhole’s case for jobs and local refining
Oshiomhole blamed past leaders for favouring importation instead. He argued local refineries make more jobs than imports. Senators asked nominees to outline clear priorities today.
Nominees must show plans for refinery support now. Eyesan has long oil sector experience at NNPC. Mohammed brings engineering skill and board experience too.
Refinery operators warned against sudden policy shifts today. They said steady rules are vital for planning. Workers fear job losses if imports stay preferred.
Aliko Dangote filed a formal petition over licences. ValidUpdates reported the Dangote files petition prompts ICPC probe. That filing pushed lawmakers to seek more documents.
What senators pressed the nominees to explain
Senators pressed nominees on policy and past choices. They asked about refinery support and job plans. Nominees promised to prioritise national interest and workers.
Senator Jimkuta backed the call for clear plans. He said voters need proof of reform intent. The hearing will test nominees’ policy commitments soon.
Observers said a fair probe may calm market fears. Refinery owners want steady rules and more support. A clear plan could restore jobs and investor trust.
Next steps and wider impact
The Senate will vote after the screening hearings. Committees will seek documents and witness statements too. ICPC actions may follow if claims hold weight.
Industry groups urged calm and patience from all sides. They hope policy shifts protect jobs and refineries. The nominees’ records will shape market confidence ahead.
ValidUpdates will follow hearings and publish updates daily. Read our report on Dangote refinery cuts petrol price. More news will show who prioritises local jobs.
