Over 6000 Illegal Refineries Shut Down in Nigeria’s Crackdown on Economic Sabotage- Minister Of Information

Kano, Nigeria – Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, announced a significant milestone in the country’s fight against economic sabotage, revealing that over 6000 illegal refineries have been deactivated.

The minister made the announcement during a Ramadan Iftar and interactive session held with media executives and practitioners in Kano.

Accompanied by key presidential media aides, including Bayo Onanuga and Abdul Aziz Abdul Aziz, as well as heads of prominent media organizations such as the News Agency of Nigeria, NTA, FRCN, and Voice of Nigeria, Minister Idris emphasized the importance of curbing illegal refining activities that have been detrimental to Nigeria’s economy.

Kano, known as the melting point of political communication, provided the backdrop for the minister’s address, highlighting the significance of engaging with media stakeholders in strategic locations across the country.

Reflecting on recent government policies, Minister Idris said President Tinubu’s bold decision to remove fuel subsidy, a move aimed at addressing longstanding economic challenges.

Despite the initial turbulence caused by the subsidy removal, Minister Idris stressed the government’s commitment to transparency and truthfulness in communicating with the public about the nation’s economic trajectory.

Cross section of journalists

With a focus on rebuilding trust in public communication and amplifying government policies and programs, the Ministry of Information and National Orientation outlined a five-point agenda aimed at fostering greater transparency and accountability.

Highlighting the positive impact of recent policy changes, Minister Idris noted a significant reduction in fuel consumption even before the subsidy removal, with plans underway to revitalize the Port Harcourt refinery and increase refining capacity across the country.

In addition to government efforts, Minister Idris called on the media to collaborate in addressing criminal elements by providing accurate and balanced reporting that exposes the harm they inflict on society.

As Nigeria continues its journey towards economic recovery and prosperity, Minister Idris emphasized the importance of collective action and cooperation between the government and media to combat illicit activities and promote national development.