The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a world-class overhaul of its 150,000 barrels per day (bpd) Port Harcourt Refinery and Kaduna Refinery.
In a statement on Thursday, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that the ongoing rehabilitation of the 60,000 bpd Port Harcourt Refinery and Warri Refinery goes beyond the traditional Turnaround Maintenance (TAM). Instead, it is a comprehensive overhaul aimed at meeting global standards.
Responding to Obasanjo’s Criticism
Soneye issued the statement in response to comments from former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who questioned the operational status of the rehabilitated refineries. Obasanjo had cited advice from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), which had reportedly deemed the Port Harcourt Refinery unviable due to corruption. He accused NNPC Ltd. of misleading Nigerians about the refineries’ operational readiness.
In response, Soneye highlighted the substantial progress made at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries while assuring that similar efforts are underway at the second Port Harcourt unit and the Kaduna Refinery.
Invitation to Former President Obasanjo
Soneye extended a formal invitation to Obasanjo, urging him to visit the refineries to observe the advancements firsthand.
“We extend an invitation to our esteemed former president to join us in this historic journey,” Soneye said.
He praised Obasanjo’s contributions to national development and expressed respect for his right to comment on critical national matters.
NNPC’s Transformation into a Global Energy Leader
Soneye further highlighted NNPC Ltd.’s transformation into a profit-driven global energy company. He noted the organization’s evolution from a loss-making entity to a diversified energy leader under the leadership of Group CEO Mele Kyari and the guidance of President Bola Tinubu’s energy policies.
“Our focus has expanded beyond oil and gas to include the development of cleaner, cheaper, and sustainable energy solutions to meet Nigeria’s growing demands,” Soneye added.
Commitment to Sustainable Operations
NNPC Ltd. remains dedicated to maintaining its refineries at global standards for sustainable operations, aiming to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products and enhance energy security.
