The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has attributed the delayed commissioning of the Port Harcourt Refinery to unforeseen challenges encountered during the ongoing rehabilitation project.
The refinery, once a symbol of Nigeria’s oil capacity, has missed several operational deadlines, leaving citizens frustrated.
In an interview on Monday, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, disclosed that the challenges arose due to the complexity of working on a brownfield project.
He revealed that while the mechanical phase was completed months ago, commissioning activities were disrupted by unexpected issues.
“Following the successful mechanical completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery, we began commissioning critical equipment and processing units. However, as is common with brownfield projects, we encountered unforeseen risks and challenges,” Soneye stated.
He assured that these issues have been resolved and that work is ongoing to ensure the project’s final delivery.
Missed Deadlines and Uncertain Timelines
The NNPCL has refrained from announcing a new timeline, citing previous failed deadlines. Nigerians had high hopes that the refinery’s restoration would reduce the cost of petrol by cutting dependency on imported fuel. However, despite promises, including a notable commitment to operationalize the refinery by August 2024, the facility remains inactive.
Meanwhile, rights lawyer Femi Falana filed a Freedom of Information (FOI) request seeking clarity on the project timeline. The request was declined by Maire Tecnimont SPA, the contractor handling the project, citing its status as a private entity not bound by FOI obligations.
Refinery Rehabilitation History
The Port Harcourt Refinery, built in 1965, was largely dormant for years before the federal government secured a $1.5 billion loan in 2021 for its modernization. Despite assurances from NNPCL leadership, progress has been fraught with delays. Notably, Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari had pledged the refinery would achieve 60,000 barrels per day refining capacity post-rehabilitation, but this target remains unmet.
Nigerians continue to await updates on the project as the year draws to a close, with lingering concerns about transparency and accountability in the management of public resources
