By ERICJAMES OCHIGBO

A conference of Anglican women has urged the Federal Government to issue licenses to modular refinery operators to boost the production of petrol and to reduce the pump price of the product at the filling stations.

Mrs Angela Ndukuba, the President, Mothers Union/Women’s Guild and Girls Organisation of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) Diocese of Abuja, made the call on Saturday.

Ndukuba who spoke at the 25thannual conference titled “Let this Mind be in You Which Was Also in Christ” said that price of petrol had continued to rise beyond the reach of the average Nigerians.

She decried the escalating pump price of petrol over the years and the scarcity of the product even at the filling stations.

The president stated that the removal of fuel subsidy in May 2023 has continued to increase hardship among citizens.

“The high cost of transportation has affected every aspect of the lives of Nigerians and contributed to high inflation figures.

“Some people had to resign from their employment because of high transportation costs.

“We are calling on the Federal Government to restore the fuel subsidy or make our refineries work.

“Capable interested Individuals should be given licenses to own standard modular refineries that will reduce the number of illegal refineries being dictated regularly.

“Reputable existing private refineries in Nigeria should be allowed to function and serve the people directly.

She suggested that Nigeria should stop the importation of refined petroleum products and encourage local production,

Ndukuba urged organisers of protests in the country to sheathe their swords and embrace dialogue, saying that protests are often hijacked by suspected hoodlums to unleash more hardship on Nigerians.

She called on the Federal Government to listen to the issues raised by the protesters

And find a lasting solution to alleviate the conditions and sufferings of the people. (NAN)

•President, Mothers Union/Women’s Guild and Girls Organisation of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) Diocese of Abuja, Mrs Angela Ndukuba