THE Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced the commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery.
NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, announced the news in a statement on Tuesday, 26 November.
“Today marks a monumental achievement for Nigeria as the Port Harcourt Refinery officially commences crude oil processing.
“This groundbreaking milestone signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for our nation,” Soneye stated.
The reopening of the Port Harcourt Refinery, which had been dormant for years, represents a major step forward in addressing Nigeria’s dependency on imported refined petroleum products.
According to Soneye, the refinery has kicked off with 60 percent capacity.
He noted that the refinery is processing 60,000 barrels per day of crude.
The Port Harcourt refinery has a combined 250 barrels per day capacity.
This development is expected to enhance the nation’s energy security, stimulate economic activity, and reduce foreign exchange expenditure on fuel imports.
Soneye extended congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NNPCL Board, and Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari for their roles in realizing the project.
“Hearty congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NNPC Board, and the exceptional leadership of GCEO Mele Kyari for their unwavering commitment to this transformative project. Together, we are reshaping Nigeria’s energy future,” Soneye added.
As operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery begin, expectations are high that this move will address persistent fuel shortages, reduce the cost of refined petroleum products, and boost Nigeria’s overall economic prospects.
The Port Harcourt refinery has a combined 250 barrels per day capacity.
The refinery, situated in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, has been in operation since 1965, but later became moribund for several years.
In March 2021, the Nigerian government acquired a $1.5bn loan for the renovation and modernisation of the refinery.
The mechanical phase of the turnaround maintenance at the Port Harcourt refinery was completed in December 2023.
Eighteen-Eleven Media