President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday extended deep commendation to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on the successful revitalization of the Port Harcourt refinery, marked by the official commencement of petroleum product loading on 26th November 2024.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy timo President Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu acknowledged the pivotal role of former President Muhammadu Buhari in initiating the comprehensive rehabilitation of all the nation’s refineries and expressed gratitude to the African Export-Import Bank (AFXIM) for its confidence in financing this critical project.
President Tinubu commended the leadership of the NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, whose unwavering dedication and commitment has been instrumental in overcoming challenges to achieve the milestone.
“With the successful revival of the Port Harcourt refinery, President Tinubu urges NNPC Limited to expedite the scheduled reactivation of both the second Port Harcourt refinery and the Warri and Kaduna refineries.
“These efforts will significantly enhance domestic production capacity alongside the contributions of privately-owned refineries and make our country a major energy hub, with the gas sector also enjoying unprecedented attention by the administration,” the statement added.
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The President expressed his administration’s determination to repair the nation’s refineries, aiming to eradicate the disheartening perception of Nigeria as a major crude oil producer that lacks the ability to refine its own resources for domestic consumption.
While highlighting the values of patience, integrity, and accountability in the rebuilding of the nation’s infrastructure, President Tinubu called upon individuals, institutions, and citizens entrusted with responsibilities to maintain focus and uphold trust in their service to the nation.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to achieving energy sufficiency, enhancing energy security, and boosting export capacity for Nigeria which he noted aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda focused on shared economic prosperity for all.
The resumption of crude oil processing at one of the country’s major refinery after a lengthy rehabilitation period, marks a significant milestone in the country’s energy sector.
NNPCL had announced that the refinery will operate at 60 percent capacity, processing approximately 60,000 barrels per day with the development coming after numerous delays since the refurbishment began.
The facility expected to contribute to Nigeria’s energy independence and economic growth.
