The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has embarked on a major upgrade of the 150,000 barrels per day (bpd) Port Harcourt Refinery and the Kaduna Refinery, aiming to meet international operational standards and boost Nigeria’s energy self-sufficiency.
In a recent statement, NNPC explained that the ongoing rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries is more than just typical maintenance—it’s a comprehensive overhaul aimed at transforming these refineries into world-class facilities. Unlike past efforts that only involved minor turnarounds, this project is designed to significantly enhance the refineries’ performance and sustainability.
This announcement follows remarks from former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who raised concerns about the viability of the Port Harcourt Refinery. He pointed out that Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) had previously questioned its operational potential due to corruption, and he alleged that NNPC Ltd. had misled the public about the refinery’s operational status.
In response, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that the company is making significant strides in overhauling the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries, with similar efforts now underway at the second Port Harcourt Refinery and the Kaduna Refinery. Soneye reassured the public that NNPC Ltd. is committed to ensuring these refineries meet global standards and operate sustainably for the long term.
To further address Obasanjo’s concerns, NNPC invited the former president to visit the rehabilitated refineries and see the progress for himself. The statement expressed deep respect for Obasanjo’s contributions to the country’s growth, recognizing his wisdom and experience as vital in shaping Nigeria’s development.
NNPC Ltd. also took the opportunity to highlight its transformation from a loss-making entity to a global energy leader. Under its new structure, NNPC Ltd. is not only focusing on oil and gas but is also committed to exploring cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions to meet Nigeria’s growing energy demands. This progress is attributed to the visionary leadership of the NNPC Ltd. management team and the energy policies of President Bola Tinubu.
This ambitious overhaul marks a significant step towards ensuring that Nigeria’s refineries operate at full capacity, reducing the need for imported fuel and driving the country toward greater energy independence.
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