Port Harcourt Refinery Operational, NNPC Confirms
Invites Skeptics for On-Site Tour of Facilities
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has reaffirmed that the Old Port Harcourt Refinery is fully operational, with active loading activities underway. This was disclosed by the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, during the commissioning of the NUPENG Towers in Lagos on Wednesday.
In a goodwill message at the event, Kyari addressed skepticism surrounding the refinery’s status, extending an open invitation to human rights activist and lawyer, Mr. Femi Falana, and other doubters for a guided tour of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries to see firsthand their operational status.
Kyari also clarified misconceptions around the blending of petroleum products, explaining its critical role in ensuring product quality. “Blending is not a crime; it is a necessary part of refining. Without blending, off-spec products are produced, which can damage vehicles. Every refinery blends to meet the specific product requirements of different countries or regions,” he stated.
Congratulating the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) on the completion of the NUPENG Towers, Kyari urged the union to maintain dialogue and collaboration with NNPC Ltd and the Federal Government.
He further highlighted the impact of recent executive orders from the President, which have spurred increased investments in the oil and gas sector, creating job opportunities and strengthening the industry’s outlook.
The NNPC’s assurance comes as a significant boost to public confidence in the nation’s refining capacity and the prospects of enhanced energy security.
