THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT MUST ENCOURAGE THE CONSTRUCTION OF MINI-MODULAR REFINERIES WHILE INTEGRATING STOLEN CRUDE OIL INTO THE NIGERIA ECONOMY THAN BURNING THEM ON-SITE

The Nigerian crude oil refining process into finished products can actually enjoy superlative boost when the federal government are ready to encourage private investors to invest into the construction of mini-modular refineries.The Niger delta region is 100% hub for oil and gas activities but the Nigerian government failed to convert its resources into mass production of petroleum products.

Delta State is resourceful like the state of Houston Texas in terms of oil and gas resources and Texas at the moment has more than 20 modular refineries working simultaneously. Encouraging the construction of mini-modular refineries shall systematically offer a promising prospect of developing the Nigerian economy, providing a faster, more cost-effective and flexible alternative to traditional refineries with potential for rapid development, reducing reliance on imports, and increase local production.

The encouragement of modular refineries will cushion the rate of fuel scarcity and bring about systematic competition that may drastically reduce the pump price of petroleum products, systematically create more employments and curb the incessant crude oil theft and illegal bunkering experience in the Niger Delta region. 

DANGER IN BURNING STOLEN CRUDE OIL

The burning of stolen crude oil seized from crude oil vandals is absolutely at the detriment of the host communities which shall directly affect their health, pollute their waters, destroy aquatic animals and make the environment unbearable. 

The federal government encouraging the installation of mini-modular refineries at close feeder ranges within the coastal area shall mitigate crude oil theft drastically in Nigeria and assist based on its designed methodology with advanced technology capable of minimising environmental impact and improve efficiency. It should also be noteworthy that the encouragement of these mini-modular refineries shall reintegrate stolen crude oil back to the Nigerian economy.

Let's take a brief look at the economic benefit of Encouraging mini-modular refineries in the Niger delta region.

1. Energy Independence: When the federal government encourages the establishment of modular refineries in our various oil producing states, can boost strong contribution to the country's energy independence. As a matter of fact, reduces the reliance on imported petroleum products and ensure a stable and secure energy supply for Nigerians.

2. Increased Revenue Generation: The encouragement of modular refineries will generate revenue streams for both government and the community. Through taxation and royalties, the government can generate additional income, which can be utilize for infrastructure development, health-care, education, and other public services. Emphatically, the modular refineries will contribute to the local economy through increase business activities and opportunities for local entrepreneurs.

3. Local Employment Opportunities: The installation of a modular refineries in the oil producing communities will create numerous job opportunities for the local population. From construction and operation to maintenance and management, the refinery will require a skilled workforce, providing employment and income for the community.

4. Technology Transfer and Skill Development: The encouragement by the federal government on the installation of modular refineries in the Niger delta region will introduced advance technologies to the communities where these refineries are situated. This will provide an opportunity for knowledge transfer, technical training, and Skill development for the local workforce. The community will benefit from engaged expertise and a more educated labor force, which can be utilized in various sectors beyond the refinery.

5. Energy Cost Reduction: The presence of a modular refinery when encouraged in the Niger delta region and most especially in the various oil producing communities will lead to a reduction in energy cost. The refinery will produce petroleum products locally, cutting down on transportation cost and import expenses. And will require a much lesser cost as it is built in modules with opportunities for expansion at every phase. This will ultimately result in more affordable energy prices for the community, benefiting both individuals and businesses.

6. Environmental Benefits: Every modular refineries are designed to be more environmentally friendly compared to traditional refineries. With improved technology, emissions can be best minimised, and advanced waste management systems can be implemented. This commitment to environmental sustainability will safeguard the local ecosystem and protect the health and well-being of the the local community people.

Therefore, based on the above indisputable economic benefits and people driving analysis, I urge the federal government to encourage private investment in constructing mini-modular refineries in the Niger delta region and look into such investment critically to enhance mass production of petroleum products in Nigeria and discourage the continuous burning of apprehended stolen crude oil product.