NNPC revenue misappropriation, trial to begin soon - Buhari

The Federal Government has assured it will soon begin the trial of those who misappropriated the revenues of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) in past administrations

President Buhari while speaking at a meeting with President Xi Jinping of China on Sunday said the appointment of a new management for the corporation was a "necessary first step" coupled with the ongoing restructuring.

Over the years, several billions of dollars have been reportedly diverted from the corporation and allegations of deduction of kerosene subsidies even when the corporation's records showed zero subsidy for the product since 2007 had surfaced.

President Buhari thanked President Xi Jinping for China’s ongoing help in curbing crude oil theft from Nigeria.

“We know your stand on corruption, and we are grateful." President Buhari said "Your continued cooperation in curbing oil theft from Nigeria will be appreciated,” he added.

China is already involved in Nigeria in diverse areas like railway, airports, agriculture, and in the Mambilla Hydro-power project, among others, President Jinping recalled.

He further assured that China will increase its investment in Nigeria's agricultural sector to support the achievement of domestic food security.