After several failed commencement deadlines in the past, the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) Ltd in Rivers State has officially commenced crude oil processing, marking a monumental achievement for Nigeria’s energy sector.
Olufemi Soneye, the spokesperson of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, November 26, 2024. According to Soneye, truck loading of the refined products, including Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), diesel, and others, has already begun.
“Today marks a monumental achievement for Nigeria as the Port Harcourt Refinery officially commences crude oil processing. This groundbreaking milestone signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for our nation,” the NNPC statement said.
The refinery is set to start operations with a capacity of 60,000 barrels per day, providing a much-needed boost to Nigeria’s domestic fuel production capabilities. This comes after several failed commencement deadlines in the past.
Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu has lauded the NNPC Limited for the successful revival of the Port Harcourt refinery, acknowledging the critical role played by former President Muhammadu Buhari in initiating the rehabilitation of Nigeria’s refineries.
Tinubu also expressed gratitude to the African Export-Import Bank for financing the project, showcasing confidence in the nation’s energy sector. The President particularly praised the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, Mr. Mele Kyari, for his steadfast leadership and commitment to overcoming challenges to achieve this significant milestone.
“With the Port Harcourt refinery back in operation, Tinubu urged NNPC Limited to fast-track the rehabilitation of the second Port Harcourt refinery, as well as the Warri and Kaduna refineries,” the statement added.
The President underscored his administration’s determination to repair the nation’s refineries, aiming to eradicate the perception of Nigeria as a major crude oil producer that lacks the ability to refine its own resources for domestic consumption.
Nigerians have long been hopeful that the cost of fuel could crash if the country refines its crude and ends the import of refined products. The commissioning of the Port Harcourt Refinery is a significant step towards achieving this goal and enhancing the nation’s energy security and self-sufficiency.
