A former member of the House of Representatives, Godfrey Ali Gaiya, has said Aliko Dangote will continue to play a dominant role in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector unless the Federal Government strengthens competition by ensuring state-owned refineries become operational.

Gaiya, a geologist and public affairs analyst, said Dangote, as a private investor, would naturally take decisions that protect the viability of his business, particularly in a volatile global oil market.

He linked recent increases in crude oil prices to escalating tensions in the Gulf region, including disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route for oil exports. According to him, the development has pushed crude prices above $100 per barrel, compared to between $70 and $80 previously.

The former lawmaker noted that global supply disruptions have ripple effects on economies worldwide, including Nigeria, contributing to rising fuel costs domestically.

He said the 650,000-barrel-per-day Dangote Refinery in Lagos has become a major influence on petrol pricing in the country, especially as government-owned refineries remain largely non-operational.

According to him, petrol prices have risen from about ₦800 to around ₦1,300 in recent weeks, reflecting global market pressures and limited domestic refining competition.

Gaiya stressed that global crude price increases inevitably affect local pump prices, noting that refiners must adjust pricing to reflect higher input costs.

He argued that reviving the four government-owned refineries would introduce competition and help stabilise the domestic market, giving consumers more options.

He added that improving refinery operations would strengthen the sector and reduce reliance on a single major refining facility, while supporting broader economic stability.