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Opinion

How refinery growth is shaping Nigeria’s environment and climate future

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For the longest anyone can remember, Nigeria has been stuck in a terrible paradox: Africa’s biggest crude oil producer, yet most of its fuel is imported. This has resulted in chains of unpleasant events ranging from drained foreign reserves to intermittent fuel scarcity, and an economy walking a tightrope. However, in recent times, there has been a shift in the positive direction.

Nigeria’s oil and gas sector has been making major moves. From the record-breaking Dangote Refinery in Lagos (Africa’s largest single-train refinery, no less) to the refurbished Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries, it is evident that Nigeria is stepping into a whole new oil production era, and a pivotal moment in its energy and economic journey.

The Dangote Refinery has the jaw-dropping capacity to process about 650,000 barrels of crude daily, and the revamped Port Harcourt Refinery has the potential of adding another 210,000 bpd to the mix and bringing back some domestic refining pride.

On the bright side, this translates to more refining power, thus, less reliance on imported fuel, more jobs, and in the long run, a big boost to the economy. But while the economic promise is great, the environmental costs of refinery expansion should not be overlooked.

Truly, these developments hold great promise for Nigeria’s economy and its people, but we must also weigh their environmental impact. Such projects could pose significant challenges for nearby communities and potentially derail the country’s climate goals if not carefully managed. This raises a critical question: how can we foster growth while safeguarding the health and future of our nation?

A 2023 IQ Air study reveals that Lagos’ air quality exceeds WHO’s safe limits by sevenfold, making additional air pollution far more than a minor issue – it’s a critical concern. The Dangote Refinery, situated in the Lekki Free Zone in Lagos, could further escalate air pollution levels, exposing residents to higher risks of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. In a city of millions already grappling with poor air quality, the stakes have never been higher.

Port Harcourt and the rest of Niger Delta, once known as the “Garden City,” have seen their lush landscapes replaced by soot-filled skies and relentless environmental degradation. Illegal refining, oil bunkering, and unchecked industrial emissions have turned the air toxic and rendered the soil barren. Farming has become almost impossible.

For decades, the Niger Delta has borne the heaviest burden of Nigeria’s oil economy. Now, with the reopening of the Port Harcourt Refinery, a pressing question emerges: will this development alleviate economic challenges in the region or exacerbate its environmental crisis?

Without strict controls on emissions, the refinery risks further deteriorating an already fragile ecosystem. The danger of oil spills and wastewater contaminating waterways—already reeling from years of neglect – looms large. Balancing this development with sustainable practices is not just a goal or an ideal; it is an urgent necessity.

Finding the Balance

It is actually alarming that these projects are coming up at a time that the global energy scene is shifting away from crude oil to renewable sources. So, how do we balance this national progress with environmental sustainability? How do we ensure that this economic growth will not translate to public health issues in the long run?

Here are some things to consider:

Enforce Tough Environmental Rules: Refineries must meet high environmental standards. There should be no cutting corners here. Constant monitoring and penalties for pollution should be made. Again, no cutting corners here! This is a general responsibility

Go Green with Tech: Cleaner technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS) can cut down GHG emissions while keeping refinery operations efficient.

Invest in Renewables: The country should invest in long-term renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydro. Diversifying energy sources now will reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.

Community Engagement: Since refineries have significant impact on nearby areas, local voices must be part of the conversation. From health and safety measures to compensation, communities need to benefit, not just bear the burden.

So, what Lies Ahead: Progress or Peril?

The Dangote and Port Harcourt refineries stand as symbols of both opportunity and challenge. They have the potential to drive Nigeria toward economic independence and energy self-sufficiency, but only if managed with care. Without bold action to address environmental and social costs, their promise could come at a price too high to bear. As these refineries begin their operations, their future and that of Nigeria depends on the choices made today. Will the legacy left behind be for better or for worse? The choices made today will determine the legacy these refineries leave for future generations. Will they symbolise progress or a missed opportunity to balance growth with environmental sustainability? The answer definitely depends on the actions we take now.

…Sunday Olaniyan​, founder of Clean Earth Nexus​, is an environmental health researcher focused on sustainability, pollution management, and the impacts of toxic exposures on communities. He is passionate about promoting environmental equity and sustainable solutions.

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