In a recent announcement, the Federal Government has unveiled the anticipated completion date for the extensive rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery. The project, awarded to Maire Tecnimont SpA in April 2021 with a budget of $1.5 billion, is expected to conclude its first phase by the end of next month.*
*However, following a comprehensive inspection visit to the refinery, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), divulged that the rehabilitation process is on track and the refinery is projected to be operational by December 2023.*
*The NNPC Limited issued a statement in Abuja reiterating the government’s steadfast commitment to ending the nation’s dependence on petroleum product imports. The government aims to revitalize local refining capabilities and ensure self-sufficiency. Senator Lokpobiri stated, “Port Harcourt Refinery will come on board by the end of the year, Warri will come on stream by the end of the first quarter of next year, and Kaduna will also come on board towards the end of next year. If you add that to the Dangote Refinery, we will be able to stop fuel importation, and Nigerians will enjoy the full benefits of deregulation.”*
*Senator Lokpobiri expressed contentment with the ongoing rehabilitation progress at the refinery. He highlighted the positive implications of restored refineries, including enhanced petroleum product supply, domesticated foreign exchange, and an improved economy.*
*During the inspection, Senator Lokpobiri was joined by Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo, the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas); Ambassador Gabriel T. Aduda, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources; and Mr. Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of NNPC Ltd.*
*Hon. Ekpo emphasized the significance of a functional refinery system for the nation’s economic well-being and the welfare of its citizens. He stressed, “All hands must be on deck to ensure that the refineries are working.”*
*Mr. Mele Kyari, the Group CEO of NNPC Ltd., conveyed the company’s dedication to realizing the national aspiration of optimal refinery operation. He stated, “We are focused on delivering this rehabilitation project, our two other refineries, and all other investments towards revamping the nation’s refining capacity. We are hopeful that in 2024, this country will be a net exporter of petroleum products.”*
*As the rehabilitation efforts move forward, all eyes remain on the progress of the Port Harcourt Refinery, a pivotal component of Nigeria’s drive for energy self-sufficiency and economic growth.*
