Leaders of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) visited the Warri Refining and Petrochemicals Company (WRPC) today, signalling a renewed commitment to Nigeria’s energy future.
Top NNPC Executives Lead On-Site Visit
Mr. Roland Ewubare, Group Chief Operating Officer, and Mr. Mumuni Dagazau, Executive Vice President of Downstream, led the high-level delegation to the refinery in Delta State. The visit aimed to assess progress and engage directly with the staff on current operations.
Warri Refinery Resumes After a Decade
WRPC resumed operations on 30 December 2024 after being inactive for 10 years. Currently, the refinery is running at 60% of its 125,000 barrels-per-day capacity. It now produces diesel (AGO), kerosene, naphtha, and low pour fuel oil. There are ongoing plans to add Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) and liquefied petroleum gas (cooking gas) to its output.
Focus on Key Infrastructure and Team Engagement
During the tour, the NNPC leadership inspected major units such as the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU), Gas Plant, and Vacuum Distillation Unit (VDU) collectively known as Area I. These units were successfully restarted late last year.
They also met with on-site staff and WRPC’s Managing Director, Mr. Chu Efifia, to review challenges and map out strategies to reach full capacity.
“This visit shows that NNPC is serious about making Warri Refinery a key part of Nigeria’s energy sector,” said an NNPC spokesperson. “We’re focused on transparency and getting the job done right.”
A Refinery with Strategic Importance
Commissioned in 1978 and upgraded with a petrochemical plant in 1988, WRPC is located in Ekpan, Uvwie, and Ubeji in Warri. It produces 13,000 metric tonnes of polypropylene and 18,000 metric tonnes of carbon black annually.
The refinery serves Nigeria’s southern and southwestern markets, playing a major role in the local energy supply.
Concerns over Shutdown Rumours
Despite its relaunch, rumours on social media suggest that WRPC briefly shut down in January 2025. This has raised concerns about the $897 million spent on its rehabilitation.
While NNPC Ltd. has not confirmed a prolonged closure, critics are calling for more transparency and oversight, including investigations from agencies such as the EFCC. The company’s latest visit appears aimed at addressing these worries and reaffirming its commitment.
Industry Players Welcome Renewed Activity
Stakeholders such as the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) have expressed strong support for WRPC’s revival.
“Warri Refinery’s comeback is a major win for Delta State and the country,” said Mr. Harry Okenini, IPMAN’s Delta State Chairman.
Aligning with National Energy Goals
NNPC Ltd.’s efforts support the federal government’s wider plan to restore all four state-owned refineries in Port Harcourt, Kaduna, and Warri. The goal is to increase domestic refining capacity, reduce imports, and create more jobs.
With operations ramping up at WRPC, Nigeria is taking real steps towards energy self-sufficiency and economic resilience.
