By Seun Adams
The Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Chapter of Nigerian Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (NIEEE), Dr. Oluwasegun Sholiyi, has commended the President of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals (DPRP), Alhaji Aliko Dangote for establishing a world class refinery in the country.
He poured encomium on Dangote for embarking on a laudable project that will significantly contribute to the overall economic growth, industrialization and sustainable development of the country.
Sholiyi, who gave the commendation when he led some executive members of the association on a technical and facilities tour of the refinery in Lagos described refinery as a giant stride and pride to Nigerians and Africans.
He said: “The refinery is no doubt the first of its kind in this part of the world, pointing out that the 650,000 barrels per day Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals is indeed a confirmation that there are better days ahead for Nigeria as the giant of Africa.”
According to him, the high level of technology and engineering at the petrochemical company is highly inspiring, saying with the successful completion of this project, Alhaji Dangote has been able to place Nigeria in the global history of oil refinery and technology.
Sholiyi, who is also the Director of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA)’s Centre for Space Transport and Propulsion, Epe in Lagos State.
He explained that the refinery will not only generate employment for teaming Nigerian youths but will drastically reduce the need for the importation of petroleum products that will save value foreign exchange and improve the balance of trade for the country.
While touring the facilities, the NIEEE’s Chairman was particularly impressed with the modern technological loading system at the refinery, describing it as second to none anywhere in the world.
Sholiyi, who said the visit was to establish a professional working relationship, assured the management of DPRP of the willingness of the association to collaborate in whatever area complimentary to the success of the great establishment.
He added that with this project, there is hope for the country as it will no doubt serve as a catalyst for the good fortune of the Nation as well as the entire citizenry.
Speaking earlier, the Training Manager of DPRP Dr. Oputa Ebele expressed gratitude to the chapter chairman and other members of the NIEEE team for the historic visit, noting that they were the first professional body to visit the refinery after the commissioning by the immediate past President Muhammadu Buhari.
Oputa, assured that the DPRP is committed to engaging favourable collaboration that will promote growth and foster knowledge sharing that will contribute to the advancement of the engineering profession in the country.
He expressed excitement on the potential collaboration and professional relationship between DPRP and NIEEE saying they look forward to the opportunities it will bring for mutual growth and development.
The DPRP boss appreciated the visiting team for giving them an in-depth look at their cutting-edge facilities saying NIEEE visit has strengthened their resolve to continuously improve and strive for excellence.
