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Tag: Port Harcourt refinery

  • Fani-Kayode accuses private operators of undermining Port Harcourt Refinery

    Fani-Kayode accuses private operators of undermining Port Harcourt Refinery

    Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has alleged that private operators seeking monopoly in the petroleum refining sector are working to discredit the Port Harcourt Refinery Company (PHRC), which was reopened on Tuesday. 

    In a post on his X handle, Fani-Kayode said: “It is a pity that some elements in the private sector who are new in the field are doing all they can to undermine and understate this great victory for Nigeria. The oil business is not the same as selling sugar, spaghetti, cement, or rice, and no matter how hard you try, you cannot muscle your way and create a monopoly on the sale of refined products as you did for other commodities over the years.” 

    Fani-Kayode described the revival of the refinery as one of the most promising developments in Nigeria’s petroleum sector in years, crediting the achievement to President Bola Tinubu and the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of NNPC. 

    He expressed optimism that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) would continue to grow and, once its other refineries are fully operational, bring relief to Nigerians.

    Read Also: Buhari is a man one can work with, says Femi Fani-Kayode

    He said: “Let the new kid on the block flourish but let the NNPC refineries flourish too. That should be our goal, not a squalid attempt to discredit NNPC and its leadership.

    “Every optimistic and true lover of Nigeria’s progress and President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda must be proud of the GMD Mele Kyari.

    “His tenacity, bravery, ingenuity and forthrightness have been rewarded with this great feat. Surely this is hope renewed for Nigerians.”

  • NNPCL dismisses criticism of Port Harcourt Refinery by alleged ‘community person’

    NNPCL dismisses criticism of Port Harcourt Refinery by alleged ‘community person’

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has berated Timothy Mgbere, a self-proclaimed “community person,” for his comments discrediting the Port Harcourt Refinery Company (PHRC), describing his claims as ignorant and unfounded. 

    NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, issued a rejoinder in response to a viral video where Mgbere alleged that the recently celebrated restreaming of the Port Harcourt Refinery and the truck-out of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) earlier this week were fabricated. 

    Soneye reiterated that the state-owned oil company stands by its achievements and dismissed Mgbere’s assertions as baseless misinformation.

    The statement said: “We would have not bothered to reply to him considering that all his assertions were a crass display of ignorance which is consistent with his claim of being a ‘community person’ who does not necessarily have any knowledge about the workings of the Port Harcourt Refinery.

    “But the need to set the records straight and not to mislead the public has constrained us to clarify as follows:”

    Soneye said Mbgere claimed that the Old Port Harcourt Refinery was only operating skeletally and was not processing PMS.

    The statement reads in part: “His proof was that the PMS truck-out was done at the gantry of the New Port Harcourt Refinery as against the gantry of the Old Port Harcourt Refinery.

    “This betrays his scant knowledge of the operations of the refinery. The Old and New Port Harcourt Refineries have since been integrated with one single terminal for product load-out.

    “They share common utilities like power and storage tanks.

    “This means that storage tanks and loading gantry which he claimed belongs to the New Port-Harcourt Refinery can also receive products from the Old Port Harcourt Refinery.

    “The same person who claimed that the Old Port Harcourt Refinery has its own separate loading gantry from that of the New Port Harcourt Refinery further went on to contradict himself by saying that the PMS that was loaded out from the supposed loading gantry of the New Port Harcourt Refinery was “old stock” from the Old Port Harcourt Refinery. So, how did the purported “old stock” move from the Old Port Harcourt Refinery to the loading gantry of the New Port Harcourt Refinery?

    Read Also: Port Harcourt refinery operational, says PETROAN

    “Going by the flawed argument of the so-called ‘community person’, “old PMS stock” from the Old Port Harcourt Refinery can be moved to the loading gantry of the New Port-Harcourt Refinery for show, but newly produced PMS from the Old Port-Harcourt Refinery can only be loaded at its own dedicated gantry. This is nothing but ignorance on full display!     

    “There are a number of other wild claims made by the man, one of which was that the refinery was producing 1.4million barrels per day. The nameplate capacity of the refinery is 60,000barrels of oil per day. It is currently producing at 90 per cent throughput which translates to Straight-Run Gasoline (Naptha) belnded into 1.4million litres of PMS, aside other products like diesel and kerosene.

    “We call on the general public to disregard the claims of the self-acclaimed ‘community person’ which are obviously borne out of sheer mischief and blatant display of ignorance.”

  • Port Harcourt refinery operational, says PETROAN

    Port Harcourt refinery operational, says PETROAN

    The Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has cautioned against spreading false claims that the Port Harcourt Refinery Company (PHRC) is non-functional. 

    The association confirmed that the facility is operational and producing petroleum products.

    Similarly, in a post on his X handle, former Aviation Minister Femi Fani-Kayode alleged that some private operators in the petroleum sector, opposed to competition, were attempting to undermine the nation’s refinery operations.

    In a press statement issued in Abuja, PETROAN’s national public relations officer, Dr. Joseph Obele, reiterated the refinery’s functionality, referencing a recent inspection by journalists and stakeholders facilitated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Tuesday.

    He said: “The National Headquarters of PETROAN is compelled to set the records straight. We state emphatically that the Old Port Harcourt refinery is currently functional and producing refined Petroleum products. On Tuesday 26th November 2024, The top Management of Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) led by Engr Mele Kyari took stakeholders and journalists to the plant to have first-hand information and to see things themselves.”

    According to him, the old Port Harcourt refinery is currently operating at 70 percent of its installed capacity, with plans to ramp up to 90 percent.

     He said that contrary to the speculations the revamped and celebrated Refinery is a mere blending plant and unproductive as circulated by most naysayers. 

    The statement noted that as part of PETROAN’s oversight function as key stakeholders, we have direct access to the plant on the authorization of management and we will encourage whoever is doubting the functional status of the plant to contact NNPC management for a facility tour rather than spreading misleading information. 

    He stated the functional plant in operation is the old refinery with a capacity of 60,000 barrels per day, while the new Port Harcourt refinery with a capacity of 200,000 barrels per day is still under rehabilitation and is due to commence production soon as announced by the management of NNPCL. 

    PETROAN said both refineries are within the same complex at Alesa Eleme in Rivers State the old Port Harcourt refinery which was built in the year 1965 stopped production over 21 years ago, while the new Port Harcourt refinery stopped production in the year 2019.

    The association said further confirmation for the authenticity of production at the Port Harcourt refinery was verified by the Senate Committee on Petroleum Resources under the able leadership of Senator S A Kawu Sumaila, in conjunction with stakeholders and members of the host community. 

    PETROAN said the Senate Committee was on fact-finding/investigation on Thursday 28th November 2024 at the Port Harcourt refinery and depot at Alesa Eleme to see things themselves. 

    He further said the senate committee saw the plant functional and Petroleum trucks loading at the Port Harcourt refinery depot. 

    The statement said that the PETROAN national leadership led by the national President Dr Billy Hary was in attendance at the senate committee visitation at the Port Harcourt refinery to welcome the committee and express PETROAN’S willingness to commence loading at the Port Harcourt refinery. 

    The statement reads in part: “PETROAN opined that the appropriate thing at the moment is to commend the team of NNPCL management led by Engr Mele Kyari that was able to revive a plant that has been moribund, deplorable, and dormant for over 21 years.

    “PETROAN hereby appraises the scorecard of Engr Mele Kyari as Excellent performance for the reviving a refinery plant which was abandoned for 21 years when he wasn’t the NNPC boss PETROAN is optimistic that the Nigeria vision is achievable and hereby call on Nigerians to be patriotic by believing in the renewed hope agenda of Mr President. 

    “Nigeria will work again. Regarding the price, NNPC Retail Ltd has officially announced the PMS price at the Port Harcourt refinery as #1,030 per litre “It was also communicated to PETROAN that the product request portal was open for booking /request. 

    “Meanwhile, PETROAN’s strategic pricing team is currently analysing the most favourable price for its members as we are open to patronising all the refineries in Nigeria. 

    “PETROAN also employs that NNPC Retail Ltd should further reduce the price giving Nigerians a blissful Yuletide celebration Finally, PETROAN supports the proposed planned privatisation of the nation-owned refineries in a no-distance time in such a manner that is credible and transparent after which the plant should be handled over to a reputable private firm with the financial capability and technical knowledge. 

    “Most worrisome as a threat to lives and properties is the ugly condition of the Eleme East-west road. The road poses a serious threat to Petroleum trucks that will be conveying flammable products from the refinery depots. 

    “PETROAN encourages the Federal Ministry of Works under which the project was awarded to RCC to facilitate the ongoing repairs of the road.”

    Meanwhile, Femi Fani Kayode said the resurrection of the PH refinery is one of the most encouraging things that has happened in the petroleum sector for many years and the credit for this must go to the President and the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC.

    He said: “It is a pity that some elements in the private sector who are new in the field are doing all they can to undermine and understate this great victory for Nigeria. 

    “The oil business is not the same as selling sugar, spaghetti, cement or rice and no matter how hard you try you cannot muscle your way and create a monopoly on the sale of refined products as you did for other commodities over the years.”

    According to him, NNPC will continue to grow, and once its other refineries are working, Nigerians will have reason to smile again.

    He said: “Let the new kid on the block flourish but let the NNPC refineries flourish too. 

    “That should be our goal, not a squalid attempt to discredit NNPC and its leadership. 

    “Every optimistic and true lover of Nigeria’s progress and President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda must be proud of the GMD Mele Kyari.

    “His tenacity, bravery, ingenuity, and forthrightness have been rewarded with this great feat. Surely this is hope renewed for Nigerians.”

  • Port Harcourt Refinery: Progress or deceptive triumph?

    Port Harcourt Refinery: Progress or deceptive triumph?

    The Port Harcourt Refinery, once a somnolent giant, has roared back to life. Long dormant and consigned to the annals of Nigeria’s unfulfilled industrial ambitions, its engines now hum with life, its pipes pulse with purpose, and its furnaces burn with a promise long awaited by a nation burdened by dependency on imported fuel.

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has declared this revival a monumental milestone, celebrating the refinery’s activation as the dawn of energy independence. Yet, amid the applause and optimism, a sobering question lingers: Will this awakening trickle into the lives of Nigerians battered by economic despair, or is it another empty triumph in the theatre of state-run projects?

    For decades, the refinery stood as a mute testament to Nigeria’s paradox—a nation rich in crude oil yet impoverished by its inability to refine it. The cost of this paradox has been staggering. Importing refined petroleum drained billions of dollars from the national coffers annually, depleting foreign reserves and exposing the populace to the volatility of global markets. The resurrection of the Port Harcourt Refinery was heralded as a masterstroke in addressing these woes, a monumental achievement akin to reviving a phoenix from its ashes. But as the trucks now rumble out with processed products, questions linger over its potential to transform the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

    The nation’s four state-owned refineries—symbols of squandered potential—have faltered, leaving Nigeria to import over 80% of its refined petroleum products at staggering costs exceeding $2 billion annually. This dependency has strained foreign reserves, exacerbated inflation, and amplified the agony of citizens grappling with exorbitant pump prices.

    Even with the activation of the Dangote Refinery, a private player with the capacity to process 650,000 barrels of crude daily, fuel costs have remained abominable. Across the federation, pump prices hover at N1,100–N1,300 per litre, with some states reporting higher prices due to transportation costs. This surge, exacerbated by inflationary pressures, has crippled the nation’s economy.

    Fuel costs have a cascading effect. Transportation costs have soared, spiralling into higher prices of food, basic provisions and essential commodities. Bread, rice, and garri—staples of the Nigerian diet—have become luxuries for many. Likewise, tomatoes, pepper, and hitherto affordable fruits. Commuters endure skyrocketing fares, market women watch their profit margins erode under-inflated transport costs, and as the prices spiral beyond reach, families struggle to afford a decent meal. For the average citizen, the oil beneath their feet has become a curse, not a blessing.

    Inflation, driven by these skyrocketing costs, has eroded purchasing power, leaving citizens clinging to the frayed edges of survival. The once-vibrant middle class, the engine of any thriving economy, is dwindling into insignificance, replaced by an ever-expanding chasm between the wealthy few and the impoverished majority.

    For a nation where over 63% of the population lives below the poverty line, such inflation is more than an economic issue—it is a humanitarian crisis. Households ration meals, children drop out of school to save costs, and the dream of a better life recedes further into the horizon. The activation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, while commendable, must not become another mirage in the desert of Nigeria’s industrial efforts. It must deliver tangible benefits to the people it purports to serve.

    The revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery has sparked hope that this tide might finally turn. Producing 1.4 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), 900,000 litres of kerosene, and 1.5 million litres of diesel daily, the refinery promises a glimmer of relief. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration oversaw the activation – since former President Muhammadu Buhari awarded the contract for its rehabilitation – hailed it as a cornerstone of his vision for energy security and economic prosperity.

    Read Also: FIRS boss, Oyedele, DG Budget Office brief Senate, seek passage of Tax Reform Bills

    Yet, even at 70% of its installed capacity, the refinery’s outputs are insufficient to meet the huge domestic demand. Moreover, its products must traverse the labyrinth of Nigeria’s distribution network—a system fraught with inefficiencies, middlemen profiteering, and logistical hurdles—before reaching the average citizen. The fear persists that the benefits of this revival may dissipate in the fog of bureaucracy, industry jargon, and operational pitfalls, leaving Nigerians to endure the same hardships cloaked in a veneer of progress.

    As the Port Harcourt Refinery chugs to full operations, it is imperative that the Warri and Kaduna refineries, as well as the second Port Harcourt Refinery, be expedited to full operational capacity. Together, these facilities have the potential to significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imports, stabilize domestic fuel supply, and lower pump prices. Their activation would also create jobs, stimulate local economies, and position Nigeria as a net exporter of refined products, rather than an importer enslaved by the volatility of global markets.

    The symbiosis between private and public efforts in Nigeria’s refining landscape is both promising and fraught. While the Dangote Refinery exemplifies private-sector innovation and ambition, the Port Harcourt Refinery symbolizes public-sector resilience. Yet, this duality must be harmonized to serve the common good. Modular refineries, with their quicker return on investment and reduced vulnerability to sabotage, offer a path forward. But their economic viability hinges on operational efficiency, competitive pricing, and sustainable policies.

    Nigeria must embrace modular refinery technology as a complementary strategy. These smaller, cost-efficient facilities can be established in months, require less feedstock, and are less vulnerable to pipeline sabotage—a menace that has long plagued the oil industry. Modular refineries offer a pathway to regional energy self-sufficiency, enabling states to address local fuel needs independently while contributing to the national grid.

    Nigeria’s ability to strike the delicate balance between the cost of crude inputs and the price of refined outputs will determine the success of its refining renaissance. As global oil markets fluctuate, the government and private players must ensure that domestic gains are not eclipsed by external shocks.

    The journey towards refining self-sufficiency cannot succeed, however, without addressing systemic inefficiencies. Operational excellence must become the cornerstone of Nigeria’s refinery management. Maintenance, modernization, and innovation are essential to reducing costs and maximizing output. The government must also ensure that the pricing of refined products aligns with the realities of Nigerian households. Subsidy removal, while economically sound, must be balanced with social interventions for vulnerable populations.

    In addition, transparency and accountability are non-negotiable. The Port Harcourt Refinery’s activation, though celebrated, must not become a tool for political grandstanding. Citizens deserve regular updates on production levels, distribution, and pricing policies. The refinery must operate as a public asset serving national interests, not as a fiefdom for private gain or political patronage.

    As the engines roar back to life, they intone the clamour of a nation’s heartfelt dream—a dream of affordable fuel, a vibrant economy, and a brighter future. Yet, dreams without deliberate action suffer a stillbirth. The refinery’s activation must mark the beginning of a new era, not merely a symbolic gesture of progress.

    The Port Harcourt Refinery, reborn from the ashes of neglect, represents a glimmer of hope that must not be extinguished by complacency or mismanagement. For its activation to resonate beyond industrial corridors, it must relieve Nigerians of economic hardships.

    This is not merely a story of machines roaring to life but of lives transformed—where a father can answer as a provider, a mother can afford transportation to the market, a child can go to school with a full stomach, and a nation can stand tall, unbowed by the weight of its potential.

  • All hail the resurrection of petroleum refining in Nigeria

    All hail the resurrection of petroleum refining in Nigeria

    By Jesutega Onokpasa

    The coming on stream, or, rather the resurrection of the Port Harcourt Refinery is exceedingly good news at a time at which good news has become a very scarce commodity in our nation.

    It was, to say the least, a great and most embarrassing national shame that we have not had functioning refineries in a major oil-producing country for decades and this long-awaited breakthrough is most heartwarming, to put it mildly.

    How we keep allowing national assets to rot and go to waste right under our noses is still a mystery to me because corruption and ineptitude aside, I still cannot fathom how a nation could be so clumsy as to keep serially inflicting grotesque harm upon itself.

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited, NNPCL, is our one and only national oil company – Dangote Refinery, massive as it is, is still just another private company and cannot pretend to be our collective asset or try to displace our true and authentic IOC which was, is and shall remain the NNPCL.

    We must all commend and encourage the NNPCL team as they reposition the oil and gas sector towards better days ahead for all Nigerians.

    I hope those with an axe to grind with the NNPCL’s Group Managing Director, Mele Kyari, and who have been angling to take his job for themselves can be forthright enough to hide their faces in shame and leave him alone to fix the oil and gas sector for all of us.

    Read Also: Petrol rolls out again from Port Harcourt Refinery five years after

    Under Mele’s watch, we have seen record restoration of our oil and gas production, drastic reduction in oil theft and now local refining of crude by our national oil company.

    We should all be proud of him and his team at NNPCL.

    Lastly and most importantly, I would urge all and sundry, regardless of their political leanings or inclinations to, at least, acknowledge President Bola Tinubu for this great milestone and incontestable achievement.

    I have many differences with my President as many are well aware but I will not fail to acknowledge, commend and celebrate him for what he does right and the resurrection of petroleum refining in Nigeria is something good he will always be remembered for.

    Onokpasa, a lawyer, is Chairman, Tinubu Media Support Group and writes from Abuja.

  • Petrol rolls out again from Port Harcourt Refinery five years after

    Petrol rolls out again from Port Harcourt Refinery five years after

    • ‘This is a milestone’
    • Thrilled Tinubu orders quick action on Warri, Kaduna refineries

    Like the phoenix, the Port-Harcourt Refinery yesterday bounced back to life after shutting down for five years.

    The resumption of production was applauded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who said this development would rekindle hope of efficient fuel supply.

    “President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt congratulations to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on the successful revitalisation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, marked by the official commencement of petroleum product loading on November 26,” a statement by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said.

    The President also ordered the reactivation of Warri and Kaduna facilities to enhance effective supply.

    The Port-Harcourt plant would operate at 60 per cent installed capacity, with 200 trucks loading petroleum products daily, Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL, Mallam Mele Kyari, said.

    The resumption was after several failed attempts by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to restart the plant.

    Speaking during a brief ceremony to mark the commencement of products loading at the refinery, Kyari described the load-out activities as a monumental achievement for Nigeria.

    According to him, it signified a new era of energy independence and economic growth for the country, adding that the move was in fulfilment of the NNPCL’s resolve to re-stream the PHRC, signalling the commencement of crude oil processing from the plant and delivery of petroleum products into the market.

    Kyari explained that trucks commenced loading of petrol, diesel and Kerosene, adding that other product slates will be dispatched as well.

    He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and understanding towards the rehabilitation project and for his persistence to ensure energy security for the country.

    Kyari also expressed appreciation to the NNPCL’s Board of Directors and the staff for their support and commitment, which climaxed in the streaming of the refinery.

    He commended the contractors for doing a great job in ensuring that the refinery was delivered despite all challenges.

    The NNPCL boss also thanked Nigerians for their patience and for the legitimate expectations on the company to deliver on the other refineries.

    He said: “We are going to see loading today. I just want to add that without leadership support, you cannot achieve results like this. And we are convinced beyond all doubt that without the support, perseverance, and patience of Mr. President, we would not have achieved this fate.

    “And all of us must congratulate him because it is his massive pressure that made us to come to this level. And we are very happy. And I congratulate my colleagues in the refinery and outside the refinery, our contractors, and even our regulators for helping us and supporting us coming to this level.

    “It is possible. This country, this refinery has shown that with persistence, with the right focus, with the right leadership support, which we have today, that we know that anything is possible. And this country is going great under the leadership of President Tinubu.”

    Read Also: Activation of Port Harcourt Refinery: A game changer for petroleum industry

    The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed, congratulated the state-run oil giant for the milestone and assured of his agency’s continued support towards the completion of rehabilitation work at the other refineries.

    He said: “I just want to confirm that all the regulatory support that were required by the refinery was granted and offered by the NMDPRA, and my colleagues have been working very closely with the contractor, as well as the management of PHRC. What is important, like the contractor said, is the upgrade to new technology.

    “So, this is an old plant that has come back with the current technology. And we are particularly supportive and worked closely with them to ensure that all the regulatory requirements were met. One thing that we have noticed also is the flare.

    “If you can all see, the flare is very clean. There is no smoke, which shows that the plant is working very well and in compliance with the environmental requirements.”

    Project Director, Maire Tecnimont, Caccaviello said: “We did a great job. We succeeded to have the facility in full production, and that is thanks to everybody. The next step soon will be to work on the other part of the area of the facilities, with the same passion, with the same effort.

    “And soon, despite all challenges that we will have in front of us, we will have a good result on the rest of the plant.”

    The rehabilitation of the refinery is an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation & Commissioning (EPCIC) project aimed at restoring the refinery to full functionality and renewal.

    It has so far achieved over 16 million man-hours with zero Loss Time Injury (LTI), it was gathered.

    Tinubu hails revival of Refinery

    President Tinubu celebrated the successful revitalisation of the refinery, an achievement that marks a major milestone in the country’s quest for energy self-sufficiency.

    The President also acknowledged the contributions of former President Muhammadu Buhari, whose administration initiated the comprehensive overhaul of the refineries.

    He also expressed gratitude to the African Export-Import Bank (Afrexim) for financing the Port Harcourt project.

    The President commended Kyari for his steadfast leadership, saying that his commitment to the project was a key factor in its success.

    The statement reads: “The President acknowledges the pivotal role of former President Muhammadu Buhari in initiating the comprehensive rehabilitation of all our refineries and expresses gratitude to the African Export-Import Bank for its confidence in financing this critical project.

    “Furthermore, President Tinubu commends the leadership of NNPC Limited’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, whose unwavering dedication and commitment were instrumental in overcoming challenges to achieve this milestone.

    “Building on this momentum, President Tinubu has directed NNPCL to expedite the reactivation of the second Port Harcourt refinery, as well as the Warri and Kaduna refineries.

    “These efforts, alongside contributions from privately-owned refineries, are expected to dramatically boost Nigeria’s domestic production capacity and position the country as a leading energy hub in Africa.

    “He emphasised the critical role of patience, integrity, and accountability in rebuilding Nigeria’s infrastructure and called on citizens and institutions to remain focused and trustworthy in their service to the nation.

    “The revival of the Port Harcourt refinery aligns with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises shared economic prosperity, energy security, and export capacity enhancement.

    “The administration has also placed unprecedented attention on the gas sector, aiming to transform Nigeria into a global energy powerhouse.

    “As the nation celebrates this milestone, President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to achieving energy sufficiency and securing a prosperous future for Nigeria’s energy sector.

    “With the successful revival of the Port Harcourt refinery, President Tinubu urges NNPCL to expedite the scheduled reactivation of the second Port Harcourt refinery and the Warri and Kaduna refineries.

    “These efforts will significantly enhance domestic production capacity alongside the contributions of privately-owned refineries and make our country a major energy hub, with the gas sector also enjoying unprecedented attention by the administration.

    “The President underscores his administration’s determination to repair the nation’s refineries, aiming to eradicate the disheartening perception of Nigeria as a major crude oil producer that lacks the ability to refine its own resources for domestic consumption.

    “Highlighting the values of patience, integrity, and accountability in the rebuilding of the nation’s infrastructure, President Tinubu calls upon individuals, institutions, and citizens entrusted with responsibilities to maintain focus and uphold trust in their service to the nation.

    “In alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda focused on shared economic prosperity for all, the President reaffirms his administration’s commitment to achieving energy sufficiency, enhancing energy security, and boosting export capacity for Nigeria.”

    ‘It’s a milestone’

    In a statement, Spokesman of the NNPCL, Femi Soneye, said: “This achievement marks a significant step forward after years of operational challenges and underperformance.”

    He dismissed claims by certain individuals that the refinery is not producing products, saying that it is unfounded.

    Soneye said: “For clarity, the Old Port Harcourt Refinery is currently operating at 70% of its installed capacity, with plans to ramp up to 90%. The refinery is producing the following daily outputs:

    “Straight-Run Gasoline (Naphtha): Blended into 1.4 million liters of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS or petrol),

    Kerosene: 900,000 liters, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO or Diesel): 1.5 million liters, Low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO): 2.1 million liters, and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): Additional volumes.”

    He added: “The refinery incorporates crack C5, a blending component from our sister company, Indorama Petrochemicals (formerly Eleme Petrochemicals), to produce gasoline that meets required specifications.

    “Blending is a standard practice in refineries globally, as no single unit can produce gasoline that fully complies with any country’s standards without such processes.

    “Additionally, we have made substantial progress on the new Port Harcourt Refinery, which will begin operations soon without prior announcements.

    “We urge Nigerians to focus on the remarkable achievements being realised under the able and progressive leadership of President Bola Tinubu and to support efforts aimed at delivering more dividends to the nation.

    “Malicious attacks on clear progress only undermine the significant strides made by NNPCL and the country. Let us move forward together in building a stronger and more self-sufficient energy sector.”

    The plant stopped operation in 2019 to pave the way for its upgrading and modernisation by the Federal Government.

    In 2021, the Federal Government started the upgrading with the award of $1.5 billion rehabilitation contract for the 29 year old plant.

    The facility consists of a 60,000 barrels per day old refinery that started operations in 1965 and a 150,000bpd second refinery that came on stream in 1989.

    Although the oldest and the biggest of the three government-owned oil refining sites, with a combined crude processing capacity of 210,000bpd, the refinery operated at a fraction of its capacity for three decades due to process inefficiency and lack of maintenance.

    The lifting of petroleum products from the refinery was supervised by Mallam Kyari, who inspected the facility on Monday night.

    About one million litres of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel and kerosene, were loaded yesterday, which represents about 42 trucks.

    The rehabilitation project, being undertaken in three phases, is expected to be completed by 2025.

    But the first phase, which is the mechanical completion phase, was done by NNPC Ltd in December last year.

    The components of the plant are a Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), a Vacuum Distillation Unit (VDU), a Naphtha Hydrotreating Unit (NHTU), a Catalytic Reforming Unit (CRU), a Continuous Catalyst Regeneration (CCR) Unit, a kerosene hydrotreating unit, a fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) unit, and a dimersol unit to convert propylene into a gasoline blendstock.

    It also has a butamer isomerisation unit, an alkylation unit, hydrogen purification, fuel gas vaporiser, sour water, and caustic treatment units.

    The old refinery comprises a CDU, a CRU, and a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) facility.

    Stakeholders welcome operations

    Stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the National Union of Petroleum and Engineering Gas Workers (NUPENG), commended the NNPCL for the resumption of operations.

    NMDPRA Chief Executive, Farouk Ahmed, described the refinery as an important asset, adding that the upgrading was done in line with global best practices.

    He said NMDPRA is satisfied with the rate of compliance by the NNPCL with environmental standards.

    Ahmed said: “This is an old plant that has been upgraded with new technology. The plant is up and running and the plant is very clean without smoke. The plant has shown compliance with environmental regulations and I want to congratulate the NNPCL and PH Refinery for this milestone.

    IPMAN: Refinery take off will boost competition

    Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), National President Abubakar Maigandi,  yesterday  expressed satisfaction with the takeoff of the Port Harcourt Refinery

    In  a telephone interview with The Nation, he said with the development, the positive gains of deregulation is about to kick in.

    “The Port Harcourt Refinery is a game changer that will bring about the positive side of deregulation. As you can see, prices of petrol sold at some IPMAN stations are cheaper than what is sold at NNPCL stations.

    “Also, with the refinery starting operation and also that of Dangote both working side by side, the country has no more need to import petrol. So it is a positive development,” Maigandi said.

    According to him, IPMAN is ready to load petrol from the refinery if given the  chance,  but it will also be a function of the price it is sold.

     The rehabilitation project is being carried out in three phases, with the goal of restoring the refinery’s original capacity and improving its efficiency.

    Kyari had pledged to deliver product from the facility before the end of the Buhari administration in 2023.

    Nigerians have lost count of the instances the company vowed to commence operations, but it missed the target.

    In August, the then NNPCL Downstream Executive Director, Dapo Segun, said the plant would begin operation on September.

    The Port Harcourt Refinery has not produced any refined petroleum products since it became moribund many years ago.

    The NNPC has repeatedly postponed its operational restart, with the latest failure occurring in early August 2024, marking the sixth missed deadline. Despite claims of mechanical completion in December last year, and the promises to commence operations, the refinery remained non-operational.

    However, the flag off of production yesterday marked a watershed in the oil sector.

     “We as IPMAN are ready to load from the refinery if the price is right. This is where competition comes in and that is good for the Nigerian people. It is a good time for Nigeria and better days are just ahead for Nigerians. With this competition, prices of petrol will be forced down. Remember that CNG is also available now. So Nigerians will be the better for it,” Maigandi said.

  • Port Harcourt Refinery take-off excites petrol marketers, TUC, Arewa youths

    Port Harcourt Refinery take-off excites petrol marketers, TUC, Arewa youths

    Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (PMAN), National President Abubakar Maigandi has expressed satisfaction with the takeoff of the Port Harcourt  Refinery in Delta State.

     In a telephone interview with The Nation, Maigandi,   said with the development, the gains of deregulation were about to kick in.

    “The Port Harcourt Refinery is a game changer that will bring about the positive side of deregulation. As you can see,the prices of petrol sold at some IPMAN stations are cheaper than what is sold at NNPCL stations.

    “Also, with the refinery starting operation and also that of Dangote both working side by side, the country has no more need to import petrol. So it is a positive development,” he said.

    According to him, IPMAN is ready to load petrol from the refinery if given the chance,  but it will also be a function of the price it is sold.

    “We as IPMAN are ready to load from the refinery if the price is right. This is where competition comes in and that is good for the Nigerian people. It is a good time for Nigeria and better days are just ahead for Nigerians. With this competition, prices of petrol will be forced down. Remember that CNG is also available now. So Nigerians will be the better for it,” Maigandi said.

    PHRC will trigger competition, say marketers

    The Petroleum Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN)  said the refinery’s operation would trigger competition in the oil industry..

    This was contained in a statement by its National Public Relations Officer Joseph Obele.

     PETROAN said, “We express optimism that the commencement of production at the Port Harcourt refinery will usher in job opportunities, boost the economy and trigger competition at the downstream sector which will invariably reflect significantly to a price downward review.”

    The association described the development as a succor to the economy.

    It also  thanked President   Tinubu, and Kyari  for   demonstrating   leadership skills and commitment to seeing the facility come back to life

    The statement reads in part: “PETROAN reaffirms her commitment to synergizing with the management of NNPC Retail and other stakeholders in ensuring that products lifted at the Port Harcourt refinery depot are well distributed to all the nooks and crannies of the nation at the right time with the right price.

    “Furthermore, we appreciate members of the host communities for the peaceful  cooperation given during the rehabilitation even as we call on the management of RCC handling the East-West Road to ensure speedy completion of the Eleme East-West Road for  smooth  movement of trucks carrying petroleum products.”

    Begin work on Warri, Kaduna  refineries, TUC tasks Fed Govt

    The Trade Union Congress (TUC)  commended the Federal Government for the smooth take-off of the  refinery after its repair.

    It said with the return of life to the facility in Rivers State, the   Federal Government should shift attention to the two refineries in Warri, Delta State, and Kaduna, Kaduna State.

    The union’s President Festus Osifo said this after their National Executive Council meeting in Abuja yesterday.

    Osifo said Port Harcourt, Warri, Kaduna, and the new PH refineries can produce 400, 000 barrels of crude oil per day.

    He said when all the refineries come on stream, they would eliminate monopoly and inject competition into the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry.

    Osifo said: “We have heard reports that the Port Harcourt refinery has resumed processing crude, but we are working to validate this claim.

    “But beyond the old Port Harcourt Refinery, we want the government to also revisit or to expedite work in other refineries. Warri refineries, Kaduna refineries, and the new PH Refineries. Those four refineries combined are holding close to 400,000 barrels of crude production per day.

    “So we call on the government to expedite action on all these refineries. Because it will eliminate monopoly and it will bring a system of competition into the downstream sector of the oil and gas industry.”

    AYCF commends Fed Govt, NNPCL

    The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF congratulated the Federal Government and the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) for reviving the refinery.

    AYCF, in a statement by its President-General Yerima Shettima, said the achievement heralds a new era of growth, sustainability in the petroleum industry, and hope for Nigerians.

      The statement partly reads: “The recent commencement of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt Refinery, with an impressive installed production capacity of 60,000 barrels per day, represents a significant milestone in our collective journey towards self-sufficiency in petroleum products.

    “The refinery’s capacity to load 200 trucks daily with locally refined products is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Federal Government and the NNPC in revitalising critical national infrastructure that has long been dormant”.

    The group noted that for years, the refinery which once stood as a symbol of Nigeria’s potential in the oil sector faced many challenges that impeded its operational efficiency.

    It stated that its revival was not merely an operational success, but a beacon of hope that demonstrates what can be achieved when vision, determination, and strategic planning converge.

    The AYCF said it recognised the tireless efforts of the Federal Government and the NNPCL in overcoming the obstacles that hindered the refinery’s functionality.

    It added:  ‘’We commend their unwavering resolve in bringing this vital asset back to life.

    “The implications of this development extend far beyond the immediate benefits of increased local production. With the refinery now operational, Nigeria is poised to reduce its reliance on imported petroleum products, a move that will enhance our economic sovereignty and contribute to the stabilization of fuel prices across the nation.

    “This is particularly crucial in light of the global fluctuations in oil prices and the economic challenges that many Nigerians have faced in recent years. Furthermore, the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery is expected to create numerous job opportunities for our youth, thereby addressing the pressing issue of unemployment that has plagued our nation”.

     The  AYCF called on all stakeholders in the oil and gas sector to collaborate and ensure that operations at the facility ran seamlessly.

      ‘’It is imperative that we foster a collaborative approach that encourages innovation, investment, and transparency within the industry. We urge the Federal Government and the NNPCL to continue engaging with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of the refinery’s revival are felt across all strata of society.

    “The  AYCF once again commends the Federal Government and the NNPC under the leadership of Mele Kyari for their remarkable efforts in reviving the refinery. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact this development will have on our economy, our youth, and the future of our great nation.”

    Ex-Ijaw youths  leader lauds Tinubu, wants petrol price reduced

    A former President of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Udengs Eradiri,  said the revival of the refinery was an indication that President Bola Tinubu’s reforms were working.

    Read Also: Activation of Port Harcourt Refinery: A game changer for petroleum industry

    Eradiri said with the  news, Tinubu should give Nigerians Christmas gift  by ordering  the reduction of the price  of petroleum products 

    He asked ministers and other presidential aides to stop putting timelines on the reforms of the President because many failed deadlines almost dented the image and good intentions of the President.

    He said: “I want to commend President Tinubu for his reforms. Clearly, things are beginning to take shape. Unfortunately, we have a system where ministers begin to give timelines on reforms knowing fully well that there are factors they cannot control. I suggest that ministers should keep quiet on timelines. 

    “I rejoice with Nigerians. I want to say that now is the time to reduce the cost of petroleum products since they are being refined in Nigeria. No OPEC(Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries)  nation should begin to dictate how much we should sell our products.

      ‘’Once we reduce petrol price,   the prices of commodities will come down. The President can reduce the fuel prices as a Christmas gift to Nigerians. This is an opportunity for the President to redeem some of the negatives ascribed to him because of the high cost of living.’’

    Expert, social commentator welcome development

    An energy analyst, Danladi Aminu, and social commentator Mayowa Sodipo described the development as a reflection of the government’s commitment to ensuring energy self-sufficiency for the country.

    Aminu, who is the chief executive officer of Swii Energy Resources, said: ‘’It is a milestone and a game-changer for Nigeria.

    ‘’This development has the potential to stabilise fuel supply, reduce the cost of petrol for ordinary Nigerians, and enhance our balance of trade. Beyond that, it showcases the government’s determination to revamp critical infrastructure.”

    To Sodipo, the good news  ‘’is  not just the reopening of a refinery but  a monumental step towards securing our energy future.”   “

    He said: ‘’The vision is to ensure that every Nigerian benefits from the vast oil and gas resources. This refinery will reduce the dependence on imported petroleum products, save foreign exchange, and create jobs across the value chain.

  • Activation of Port Harcourt Refinery: A game changer for petroleum industry

    Activation of Port Harcourt Refinery: A game changer for petroleum industry

    • Femi Oniyide

    The revitalization of Nigeria’s Port Harcourt Refinery marks a historic achievement in the country’s oil and gas sector, signaling a brighter future for its petroleum industry. 

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPCL) deserves high praise for leading this initiative, showcasing its commitment to Nigeria’s energy security and economic growth. 

    The recent activation of the Port Harcourt Refinery is a momentous step in Nigeria’s journey towards self-sufficiency in petroleum refining. 

    After years of underperformance and a lengthy period of inactivity, the refinery, which is one of the country’s largest, has now resumed operations under the leadership of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

     This revitalization represents a critical milestone in addressing Nigeria’s longstanding fuel supply challenges and sets the stage for a more sustainable and prosperous energy future. 

     The Port Harcourt Refinery, originally commissioned in the 1960s, has been a crucial part of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure. However, over the years, it struggled with operational inefficiencies, lack of investment, and poor maintenance. 

    The activation of this refinery has been made possible by the strategic efforts and visionary leadership of NNPCL’s management team, which recognized the importance of bringing this vital asset back to life. 

    NNPCL has invested significant resources into the rehabilitation and upgrade of the refinery, making it one of the most ambitious turnaround projects in the country’s petroleum sector. Under the guidance of the current NNPCL management, headed by Mele Kyari, the corporation has worked tirelessly to restore the refinery’s capacity to refine crude oil into petroleum products, ensuring a steady supply of refined products to meet the domestic demand. 

    The activation of the Port Harcourt Refinery has several far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s petroleum industry, marking a turning point in the country’s refining capabilities. 

    Read Also: Jubilation as Port Harcourt Refinery begins production

    For years, Nigeria, despite being Africa’s largest oil producer, has struggled with a reliance on imported refined products. This has drained the country’s foreign exchange reserves and created vulnerability to global oil price fluctuations. With the Port Harcourt Refinery now fully operational, Nigeria is well on its way to significantly reducing its dependency on imported refined petroleum products.

     This move will not only help stabilize the domestic supply of fuel but will also contribute to lowering the cost of petrol, thereby easing the financial burden on Nigerian citizens and businesses. 

    Additionally, the refinery’s activation will contribute to job creation, as it will require skilled labour for its ongoing operation and maintenance. Local suppliers and contractors will also benefit, creating a positive ripple effect throughout the economy. 

    The positive economic impact of this revitalization cannot be overstated, as it positions Nigeria to gain more value from its vast crude oil reserves by processing more of it locally rather than selling it in its raw form. 

    NNPCL’s successful turnaround of the Port Harcourt Refinery aligns with the country’s broader vision of achieving self-sufficiency in refining. 

    The corporation has already laid out plans for the rehabilitation of other refineries in the country, with the goal of increasing Nigeria’s refining capacity to meet both domestic and regional demand for petroleum products. 

    The management’s foresight and dedication to this cause demonstrate their commitment to transforming Nigeria into a net exporter of refined products, rather than a net importer. 

    The progress at Port Harcourt is also a testament to NNPCL’s ongoing efforts to reform the oil and gas sector and improve transparency. The activation of the refinery not only strengthens Nigeria’s energy security but also boosts investor confidence in the country’s petroleum sector, showing that reforms can yield tangible results. 

    The success of the Port Harcourt Refinery activation deserves to be attributed to the leadership and management of NNPCL. 

    Mele Kyari, the Group Managing Director of NNPCL, and his team have demonstrated exceptional leadership, ensuring that this long-awaited project came to fruition. Their strategic approach to the refinery’s rehabilitation, as well as their commitment to modernizing Nigeria’s entire petroleum industry, has had a transformative impact on the sector. 

    NNPCLL’s management has also embraced innovative approaches, leveraging both local expertise and international partnerships to bring the refinery back online. This collaboration has facilitated a faster and more efficient turnaround, positioning NNPCL as a model for corporate governance and operational excellence in Africa’s oil and gas industry. 

     The activation of the Port Harcourt Refinery marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. This development is a significant achievement for the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation, which has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to self-sufficiency in refining and national energy security. 

    With the Port Harcourt Refinery now operational, Nigeria is poised to take a significant step towards greater energy independence, improved economic stability, and reduced reliance on imported petroleum products. 

    The success of this project further solidifies NNPCL’s pivotal role in shaping the future of Nigeria’s petroleum sector and contributes to the long-term prosperity of the country. 

    The leadership of Mele Kyari and his team should be lauded for their vision, persistence, and outstanding management, which have made this achievement possible.  

     Oniyide, Coordinator Concerned Citizens of Nigeria

  • Jubilation as Port Harcourt Refinery begins production

    Jubilation as Port Harcourt Refinery begins production

    There was jubilation in the Niger Delta region on Tuesday following the eventual commencement of crude oil refining at the Port Harcourt Refinery in Rivers State.

    While some expressed mixed feelings over the reality of the report from the NNPCL that the refinery was up and running, others heaved a sigh of relief that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was able to revive the abandoned facility.

    Officials of NNPC and senior employees of the refinery carried out a demonstration to convince stakeholders, who had given up on the facility that the refinery had started production.

    The officials took stakeholders through the production process from the field, and control room to the loading bay where scores of trucks lined up to evacuate refined products.

    In the computerised control room, workers were seen working on their computers, a process that was described as manipulating the system to achieve the desired results.

    The stakeholders were also permitted to observe the loading of the first set of trucks, which came to evacuate refined Petroleum Motor Spirit (PMS).

    The national President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), Dr Billy Harry, who led other members of the association to witness the breakthrough congratulated the Federal Government for the feat.

    “We are happy that the refinery has eventually come on stream and we congratulate them”, he said.

    A former President of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC) Worldwide, Udengs Eradiri, said the revival of the Port Harcourt refinery was an indication that President Tinubu’s reforms were working.

    He asked ministers and other presidential aides to stop putting timelines on the reforms of the President regretting that many failed deadlines on the take-off of Port Harcourt refinery almost ruined the image and good intentions of the President.

    He said: “I want to commend President Tinubu for his reforms. Clearly, things are beginning to take shape. Unfortunately, we have a system where ministers begin to give timelines on reforms knowing fully well that there are factors they cannot control.

    “I suggest that ministers should keep quiet on timelines. You can talk about what is being done or go and carry out inspections so people can see what is happening. But desist from giving timelines because when you fail on deadlines it creates credibility issues around the leadership.

    “I rejoice with Nigerians and I want to ask them to keep believing in the leadership of the President. I want to say that now is the time to reduce the cost of Petroleum products because if the products are being refined in Nigeria, no OPEC should begin to dictate how much we should sell our products.

    “Aviation fuel as well as petrol can be made cheaper. Once we reduce the petrol price all the commodities will come down. The President can reduce the fuel prices as a Christmas gift to Nigerians. This is an opportunity for the President to redeem some of the negatives ascribed to him because of the high cost of living.

    “Thank you Mr President for what you are doing and I believe that consistently with the President’s supervision of all the sectors and reforms, things will move faster”.

    Port Harcourt refinery took off after many years of waiting and many failed deadlines, but the sight of trucks queuing to evacuate refined products reportedly rekindled the hope of the people.

    The old Port Harcourt refinery was mechanically inaugurated in December 2023 but was shut down at some points after a section of the plant was engulfed by fire.

    The old refinery was included in a $1.5bn comprehensive turnaround maintenance of the two Port Harcourt refineries and their contracts were awarded in 2021.

    The old refinery rehabilitation was awarded with a completion date of two years but it continued to suffer a series of setbacks that made many stakeholders doubt the sincerity of the government.

    The project was completely abandoned before President Bola Tinubu as part of his Renewed Hope Agenda ordered that it be completed by August 2023.

    Read Also: Six things to know about Port Harcourt Refinery

    After the failure of the NNPC to meet the August 2023 deadline set by the President, the corporation started fixing various unrealistic timelines that created confusion in the system.

    But in December 2023 when the Minister of State (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, inaugurated the mechanical completion of the plant.

    Other new issues delayed the take-off of the project until April 2024, the management of NNPCL said that Shell Petroleum Development Company Limited supplied 450,000 barrels of crude oil to the refinery.

    But the progress of the refinery went out of circulation until Tuesday when it was confirmed that the facility had started production.

  • AYCF commends FG, NNPC for reviving Port Harcourt Refinery

    AYCF commends FG, NNPC for reviving Port Harcourt Refinery

    The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to the federal government of Nigeria and the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Ltd (NNPCL) under the exemplary leadership of Mele Kyari on the operational status of the Port Harcourt Refinery.

    AYCF in a statement by its President General Yerima Shettima said, the remarkable achievement marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s oil industry and heralds a new era of growth, sustainability, and hope for millions of citizens across the nation.

    “The recent commencement of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt Refinery, with an impressive installed production capacity of 60,000 barrels per day, represents a significant milestone in our collective journey towards self-sufficiency in petroleum products.

    “The refinery’s capacity to load 200 trucks daily with locally refined products is a testament to the dedication and commitment of the Federal Government and the NNPC in revitalizing critical national infrastructure that has long been dormant”.

    He noted that for years, the Port Harcourt Refinery has stood as a symbol of Nigeria’s potential in the oil sector, yet it has faced numerous challenges that impeded its operational efficiency, adding that the revival of the refinery is not merely an operational success; it is a beacon of hope that demonstrates what can be achieved when vision, determination, and strategic planning converge.

    The AYCF said it recognized the tireless efforts of the Federal Government and the NNPC in overcoming the obstacles that have hindered the refinery’s functionality, and we commend their unwavering resolve in bringing this vital asset back to life.

    “The implications of this development extend far beyond the immediate benefits of increased local production. With the refinery now operational, Nigeria is poised to reduce its reliance on imported petroleum products, a move that will enhance our economic sovereignty and contribute to the stabilization of fuel prices across the nation.

    “This is particularly crucial in light of the global fluctuations in oil prices and the economic challenges that many Nigerians have faced in recent years. Furthermore, the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery is expected to create numerous job opportunities for our youth, thereby addressing the pressing issue of unemployment that has plagued our nation”.

    The AYC further believed that empowering our youth through job creation is essential for fostering a sense of purpose and belonging in society. The operationalization of the refinery not only promises immediate employment opportunities but also paves the way for the development of a skilled workforce that can contribute to the growth of other sectors in the economy.

    Read Also: Six things to know about Port Harcourt Refinery

    Additionally, the AYCF acknowledged the environmental significance of reviving the Port Harcourt Refinery. With modernized operations and adherence to best practices in environmental management, the refinery has the potential to minimize the ecological impact associated with petroleum refining. This aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable development and responsible resource management, which are vital for preserving our planet for future generations.

    In light of these developments, the AYCF called upon all stakeholders in the Nigerian oil and gas sector to rally behind this initiative. It is imperative that we foster a collaborative approach that encourages innovation, investment, and transparency within the industry. We urge the Federal Government and the NNPC to continue engaging with local communities and stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of the refinery’s revival are felt across all strata of society.

    “In conclusion, the AYCF once again commends the Federal Government and the NNPC under the leadership of Mele Kyari for their remarkable efforts in reviving the Port Harcourt Refinery. We look forward to witnessing the positive impact this development will have on our economy, our youth, and the future of our great nation”.