NNPC Reveals Reason For Delay in Port Harcourt Refinery Take-Off

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has shed light on the delays surrounding the much-anticipated rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, which failed to meet its September 2024 operational target. Despite earlier assurances, the refinery remains non-operational, leaving many Nigerians disappointed.

Speaking on Monday, NNPCL Chief Corporate Communications Officer Olufemi Soneye explained that the project faced significant hurdles during its rehabilitation.

He stated, “You may recall that mechanical completion of the PHRC revamp was successfully achieved several months ago, marking a significant milestone in the project. Following this, we began the commissioning of critical equipment and process units. However, as is common with brownfield projects of this scale and complexity, we encountered unforeseen risks and challenges.”

While these challenges have reportedly been addressed, Soneye emphasized that work continues to ensure the project’s success. However, the NNPCL refrains from committing to a specific completion date, further fueling public skepticism.

The Port Harcourt Refinery, once capable of refining 210,000 barrels of crude oil daily, has been dormant for years despite a $1.5 billion rehabilitation effort launched in 2021. The rehabilitation contract is managed by Italian firm Maire Tecnimont SPA, which has declined to disclose a completion date, citing its status as a private contractor exempt from public information laws.

The prolonged delay has frustrated Nigerians, who had hoped the refinery’s revival would reduce dependence on imported fuel and lower costs. NNPCL’s repeated missed deadlines—seven so far—have only deepened public doubts about the refinery’s future.

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