The Nigerian Society of Chemical Engineers, the nation’s highest body of chemical engineering professionals, has declared the Port Harcourt Refinery operational, dispelling claims that the facility is inactive.
In an interview, the NSChE National President, Mr. Tony Ogbuigwe, confirmed that chemical engineers working at the refinery have validated its operations. After being dormant for over 20 years, the facility, specifically its Area 5 section—referred to as the “Old Refinery”—has resumed production and is running effectively.
Ogbuigwe explained that refining is a scientific process devoid of emotion or sensationalism. He detailed the systematic operations, confirming that the refinery is currently producing multiple products, including kerosene, diesel, and fuel oil, which are being blended into petrol (PMS) for public consumption.
“The Area 5 section has been brought back to life and is operational. Products like light naphtha, heavy naphtha, kerosene, light gas oil (diesel), and fuel oil are being produced. These products are blended with Crack C5, a high-octane stock from Eleme Petrochemicals, to create PMS that meets regulatory standards,” he said.
Ogbuigwe further clarified that blending is a standard refinery practice. “Refineries do not directly produce finished products like PMS or diesel. Instead, they create components such as LPG, light and heavy naphtha, and kerosene, which are stored and later blended to meet public demand. This is how the Port Harcourt Refinery operates, similar to refineries worldwide.”
Addressing skepticism, he noted that truck loading has taken place, and refined products are being distributed to the public. “Contrary to media reports, products are being blended and loaded onto trucks for distribution. The facility is operational at 60-70% capacity and is scaling up to 90%.”
Ogbuigwe also highlighted the next steps for optimization, emphasizing the need to commission the Catalytic Reforming Unit, which processes heavy naphtha into high-octane components for PMS.
He concluded by expressing optimism about the refinery’s progress and potential. “With full optimization, the refinery will significantly enhance Nigeria’s local refining capacity, reducing dependency on imports while meeting domestic fuel needs.”
