The Federal Government has approved a licence for the construction of a new refinery with a capacity of 27,000 barrels per day (BPD) in Gombe State. The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) announced the approval, granting the licence to Process Design and Development Limited. The refinery will be located in Dole-Wure, Akko Local Government Area of the state.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the NMDPRA highlighted the importance of the new facility in boosting Nigeria’s refining capacity. The Authority Chief Executive presented the licence to the company’s Managing Director during a formal ceremony.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Refining Capacity
This new development adds to Nigeria’s growing number of modular and conventional refineries. Despite having around 10 licenced refineries, many remain underutilised or non-operational, contributing to the country’s reliance on imported petroleum products.
Company Background
Process Design and Development Limited is registered in Kano with directors Adamu U. Sanda, Abdulkadir Umar, Umar S. Umar, and Bashir Umar. The refinery project aims to address regional energy demands and reduce dependence on imports, aligning with government efforts to boost local refining and energy security.
Outlook
With the Port Harcourt Refinery and other projects in progress, the approval of this new refinery signifies a strategic push towards achieving energy self-sufficiency. However, ensuring that these refineries operate at full capacity remains a critical challenge for Nigeria’s energy sector.
Stakeholders anticipate that the refinery’s establishment will enhance job creation, stimulate economic growth, and reduce fuel importation costs, ultimately benefiting the nation’s economy.