The Port Harcourt Refinery has finally commenced crude oil processing, marking a significant milestone after missing seven production deadlines as of October 2024.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced the development, hailing it as a transformative achievement for Nigeria’s energy independence and economic growth.
An NNPCL source stated, “Today marks a monumental achievement as the Port Harcourt Refinery officially begins crude oil processing. Congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NNPC Board, and GCEO Mele Kyari for their unwavering commitment to this project.”
The refinery’s rehabilitation, initiated in 2021 under a $1.5 billion contract with Italian firm Maire Tecnimont SpA, faced repeated delays.
Mechanical completion was announced in December 2023, but production was stalled due to safety checks and final-stage rehabilitation challenges.
This long-awaited milestone is expected to boost Nigeria’s energy sector and reduce dependence on imported refined petroleum products. Further details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
