Dangote Should Sell Fuel Directly to Nigerians, Not To NNPC – Afe Babalola

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Aare Afe Babalola, the founder of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), is urging the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to dismantle its monopoly on fuel sales, and allow the Dangote Refinery to sell fuel at competitive rates that could alleviate the financial burden on Nigerians.

Babalola’s call to action came during a ceremony where he was recognized as the “Outstanding Achiever of All Time” by the Ekiti-Kete Coalition in the United States.

“If Dangote has invested heavily in building a state-of-the-art refinery, why should NNPC require him to sell to them first?” Babalola questioned. “Let anyone who can build a refinery do so and sell directly to the public. This competition will drive prices down.”

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He emphasised that the current monopoly hampers fair pricing and accessibility, stating, “There should be no NNPC monopoly. Allow Dangote to sell at his rate, and the price will decrease.”

In his acceptance speech, the esteemed legal expert expressed gratitude to the Ekiti-Kete Coalition for the award, viewing it as a significant acknowledgment of his contributions to education, healthcare, and community development.

“I challenge you to join me in changing our mindset,” Afe Babalola urged. “Many could build universities like I have, but they don’t. It’s time to appreciate efforts that uplift our communities.”

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Babalola also remarked on the irony that recognition for his work often comes from abroad rather than within Nigeria. “It’s disheartening that those in America see the value in my work when local appreciation is lacking,” he said. “The more we recognize each other’s contributions, the better it is for our entire country.”

During the award presentation at ABUAD, Joe Olugbamila, President of the Ekiti-Kete Coalition, praised Babalola’s extensive contributions across multiple sectors. “Afe Babalola is not just a person; he represents an institution and an ideal. If more individuals mirrored his dedication, our state would flourish.”