Former presidential aide and social commentator Reno Omokri has called on Nigerians to shun imported fuel and embrace products refined locally, emphasizing that the nation’s economic strength and currency stability depend on a consistent preference for homegrown goods.
Speaking during a weekend tour of the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, Omokri said that Nigeria’s growing capacity in domestic fuel production represents a turning point for the economy, signaling an end to decades of dependence on imported petroleum products.
According to him, patronising locally refined petrol is not merely a patriotic choice but a strategic move toward restoring national economic sovereignty and empowering local industries.
Shun Imported Fuel and Strengthen Nigeria’s Economy, Says Omokri
Omokri, known for his policy-driven advocacy, urged both citizens and policymakers to take decisive action to sustain the positive gains of local refining, particularly in light of Nigeria’s recent exit from the top position as Africa’s biggest petrol importer.
He praised the Dangote Refinery for its role in transforming Nigeria’s oil landscape, noting that its large-scale operations have allowed the country to reduce imports drastically and even emerge as West Africa’s largest exporter of refined petroleum products.
“South Africa has now overtaken Nigeria as the continent’s biggest petrol importer,” Omokri noted.
“This is a victory for our economy and a wake-up call to every Nigerian — we must begin to see the purchase of locally refined fuel as a duty to the nation.”
Omokri stressed that the value of the naira will only appreciate when Nigerians collectively commit to consuming and exporting locally made goods.
He explained that the strength of any nation’s currency is directly tied to its productive output and export performance.
Economic Impact of Choosing Local Refining Over Imported Fuel
The former presidential aide argued that the recent turnaround in Nigeria’s fuel trade dynamics marks a new phase of industrial self-sufficiency.
He described it as a “360-degree transformation” that places Nigeria on the path to energy independence.
“True prosperity is not about earning a million naira that can’t buy much,” Omokri explained.
“It’s about earning ten thousand naira that retains real value because it is supported by domestic production.”
He warned that an economy dependent on imported fuel is vulnerable to foreign exchange shocks, inflation, and unemployment.
Instead, he advocated for a national mindset that values production over consumption, arguing that sustained local refining will protect Nigeria from external disruptions and preserve jobs in the energy sector.
Shun Imported Fuel: A Call for Policy Alignment and Labour Cooperation
Omokri also appealed to the federal government and labour unions to align their policies with national productivity goals rather than focusing solely on wage negotiations.
According to him, a wage increase without corresponding output only leads to inflation and weakens purchasing power.
“The government must think long-term,” he said.
“Instead of negotiating pay raises unbacked by productivity, Nigeria should invest in skills, industries, and technology that generate real value.”
He urged labour groups to support industrial initiatives that expand domestic production, saying that economic freedom cannot be achieved through imports.
Omokri highlighted the refinery’s success as proof that local innovation, when supported by sound policies, can redefine the country’s economic future.
Dangote Refinery’s Role in Fueling Nigeria’s Growth
Omokri’s comments come at a time when the Dangote Refinery, one of the world’s largest single-train refineries, has begun to stabilize Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector.
By refining millions of litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) daily, the facility is gradually eliminating the need for importation and helping Nigeria save billions in foreign exchange.
Experts have noted that the refinery’s impact could extend beyond oil to broader economic benefits — including job creation, price stabilization, and infrastructure growth.
With increased refining capacity, Nigeria is positioned to become a regional energy hub, supplying refined products to neighboring countries while boosting local GDP.
Rebuilding Economic Confidence Through Local Patronage
Omokri’s call to shun imported fuel resonates with ongoing efforts by the government to promote the Buy Nigeria, Grow Nigeria initiative.
He emphasized that patriotism must reflect not only in politics or culture but also in economic habits.
He explained that Nigerians who purchase locally refined fuel contribute directly to national wealth, while those who depend on imports drain the economy.
“Every litre of imported fuel represents jobs lost, taxes uncollected, and currency weakened,” he said.
“Supporting local refineries ensures that wealth stays within Nigeria.”
As Nigeria continues its march toward industrial revitalization, Omokri’s message serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to sustain progress.
The success of the Dangote Refinery, combined with government policy reforms, provides a foundation for energy independence and economic resilience.
To achieve long-term stability, experts suggest further investment in modular refineries, transparent pricing mechanisms, and improved infrastructure.
Omokri believes that with unity of purpose and consistent patronage of local products, Nigeria can reclaim its place as an economic powerhouse in Africa.
“Nation-building starts with choices,” he concluded.
“Every time we choose a Nigerian product over an imported one, we strengthen our economy, create jobs, and secure the future of our children.”
