The Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, has issued a strong rebuttal to a recent publication by SaharaReporters, describing the article as false, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and tarnish the institute’s reputation.
In a statement released on Friday, July 11, 2025, the PTI management condemned the report titled “Despite ₦39 Billion Budget, Students at Nigeria’s Petroleum Training Institute Study in Flooded Classrooms, Snake-Infested Hostels,” which was published on July 10 by SaharaReporters.
“The publication is factually inaccurate and mischievous,” the Institute declared, stating categorically that there are no flooded classrooms or snake-infested hostels on its campus. PTI affirmed that its lecture halls, laboratories, workshops, and student hostels are in good condition, with no credible evidence or complaints to support the allegations made.
PTI described its campus as one of the safest and most serene federal institutions in the country, boasting over 20 hours of electricity daily through a combination of public supply and industrial-grade generators. It further highlighted the functionality of solar-powered streetlights and the consistent efforts of its Services Directorate in maintaining infrastructure.
Challenging the credibility of the report, the Institute called on SaharaReporters to present verifiable proof—including statements from elected student leaders or hostel governors—to substantiate its claims. PTI emphasized that student representatives, who live on campus, are actively involved in monitoring student welfare and infrastructure.
Addressing the ₦39 billion budget mentioned in the report, PTI clarified that the figure reflects a federal allocation intended to cover a broad spectrum of expenses—including capital projects, personnel, training, and operational costs—all under strict oversight by the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources and relevant auditing agencies.
“It is intellectually dishonest to suggest mismanagement without understanding the structure and conditional nature of federal allocations,” the statement read. “Every kobo is accounted for and managed in accordance with due process.”
PTI also rejected insinuations that it has abandoned its signature hands-on training model, asserting its continued leadership in oil and gas education. The Institute cited its role in training personnel for Nigeria’s refineries and hosting engineering students from across Nigeria and Africa, including Angola, Uganda, Benin Republic, and São Tomé and Príncipe.
The Institute pointed to a recent visit from the Africa Petroleum Producers’ Organization (APPO) and officials from the Republic of Niger, who endorsed PTI as a potential Regional Centre of Excellence in oil and gas training.
Describing the SaharaReporters article as alarmist and unethical, PTI called for greater journalistic responsibility and accountability. “We welcome constructive criticism based on verified facts. Sensational reporting aimed at discrediting institutions is unprofessional and harmful,” the management stated.
PTI also condemned attempts to personally target the Principal and CEO of the Institute, affirming that the administration remains focused on infrastructure upgrades, research advancement, and strengthening partnerships within the oil and gas industry.
The Institute demanded a retraction and public apology from SaharaReporters within 48 hours, warning that failure to comply would lead to legal action under the Cybercrimes Act 2015 and defamation laws.
“We urge staff, stakeholders, and students to disregard this malicious publication and remain committed to the vision of excellence in energy sector training,” the statement added.
