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FG confirms NNPCL repayment process to clear $6bn debt

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has officially begun the repayment of its $6 billion debt, as confirmed by Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy.
Wale Edun, Nigeria's finance minister, during a Bloomberg Television interview on day two of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. [Getty Images/Bloomberg]
Wale Edun, Nigeria's finance minister, during a Bloomberg Television interview on day two of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. [Getty Images/Bloomberg]

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has officially begun the repayment of its $6 billion debt, as confirmed by Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy.

The announcement was made during an investor meeting in Washington, D.C., signalling a step toward stabilising the company's financial position.

Speaking at the event, Edun addressed concerns about NNPCL's growing debt and ongoing financial strain despite the removal of the fuel subsidy in May 2023.

"Although the subsidy was removed on May 29, 2023, the company continued to face challenges, not in terms of petrol subsidy, but foreign exchange subsidy, which was borne elsewhere, mainly by NNPC," he explained.

This burden exacerbated the company's difficulties, particularly in maintaining supply obligations.

The Minister assured stakeholders that the NNPCL has outlined a structured plan to settle its debts.

"What I can say about their situation now is that they have a route to paying down their payables, and I'm sure that in no time, they will start. From what I understand, they have even commenced the process," he confirmed.

NNPCL's debt, which amounts to over $6 billion owed to suppliers, has been a topic of concern among investors and industry experts.

The company has previously admitted to experiencing significant financial pressure, especially due to rising foreign exchange costs.

This latest development is expected to restore confidence among domestic and international investors, offering reassurance about NNPCL's ability to navigate its financial commitments while maintaining supply stability.

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