The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria has hailed the commencement of operations at the Port Harcourt refinery.
The CSO acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to reforming and transforming the petroleum sector, adding that this marked a significant milestone in “our Economic Recovery.”
It also commended the Board of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) led by Chief Pius Akinyelure, and the Management led by Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyarinfor the successful commencement of operations at the refinery.
It however called on the NNPCL to prioritise resuming operations at the dormant Kaduna and Warri refineries.
This, it said, will further boost Nigeria’s refining capacity and reduce reliance on imported petroleum products.
Executive Director of the group, Blessing Akinlosotu, stated this at a press conference in Abuja yesterday.
While welcoming the resumption of operations at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), he described it as a landmark achievement that marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s economic recovery.
He said: “The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria commends the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) for surpassing its revenue targets, reaching an impressive 14 trillion naira this year. This achievement marks the highest revenue recorded by the corporation, alongside the successful re-streaming of the Port Harcourt Refining Company.
“The Council lauds the efforts of all contributors to this success, especially President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in transforming the Petroleum Sector. NCSCN remains optimistic that this achievement will drive further progress, and prosperity, ensuring Energy Security for Nigeria.
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“Furthermore, the Council encourages NNPC Limited to continue enhancing its Corporate Social Responsibility, particularly in Host Communities, to guarantee hitch-free production.
“The Council reaffirms our commitment to collaborating with the Government, NNPC Ltd., and other stakeholders to ensure a bright and sustainable Energy future for Nigeria.”
According to Akinlosotu, by re-streaming the Port Harcourt refinery, NNPC Ltd has fulfilled its promise, with the first loading of petroleum products from the refinery after years of unsuccessful attempts.
“This feat heralds a new era in Nigeria’s Energy Sector, marking a giant stride towards self-sufficiency in petroleum production and a substantial reduction in reliance on foreign imports,” Akinlosotu said.
