Port Harcourt Refinery Resumes Operations, Boosts Nigeria’s Energy Sector
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has announced the successful re-streaming of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), marking a significant milestone in the country’s energy sector. The refinery, currently operating at an output of 60,000 barrels per day, has the potential to double its capacity to 120,000 barrels per day upon full rehabilitation.
On Tuesday, trucks began transporting petroleum products, including Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Household Kerosene (HHK), from the Port Harcourt facility. This achievement is expected to address critical fuel supply needs and reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported refined products.
During a ceremony held to commemorate the refinery’s operations, NNPC’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari, hailed the milestone as a “monumental achievement” for Nigeria. He emphasized that the development signals a new era of energy independence and economic growth for the nation.
Kyari attributed the success of the project to the unwavering support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who prioritized the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries as part of his administration’s energy security agenda. “This is a testament to the president’s vision and persistence in ensuring the nation’s energy security,” Kyari stated.
The NNPC chief also extended his gratitude to the company’s Board of Directors, staff, and contractors for their dedication and resilience in overcoming challenges to deliver the refinery. Kyari further acknowledged Nigerians for their patience and reassured them of the company’s commitment to completing the rehabilitation of other refineries across the country.
The Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Mr. Farouk Ahmed, praised the NNPC’s efforts and assured his agency’s continued support. He highlighted the importance of the project for national energy security and economic sustainability.
The rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery is an Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning (EPCIC) project. It has achieved over 16 million man-hours without a single loss-time injury, showcasing a commitment to safety and operational excellence.
With the plant’s output now contributing to Nigeria’s fuel supply chain, experts anticipate a reduction in fuel importation costs and improved energy availability. The NNPC has expressed optimism about the refinery’s role in stabilizing the local petroleum market and supporting economic growth.
The refinery’s eventual full-capacity operation, delivering 120,000 barrels per day, is expected to further bolster Nigeria’s position in the global energy landscape while providing local solutions to its energy challenges.
This milestone reinforces NNPC’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, addressing infrastructure deficits, and enhancing the nation’s self-sufficiency in fuel production.
