The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced significant progress in the rehabilitation of the 150,000 barrels per day (bpd) Port Harcourt Refinery. According to Isiyaku Abdullahi, the Group Executive Vice President for Downstream Operations, over 90% of the upgrade is complete. The announcement was made during a recent visit by leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to the refinery in Rivers State.
This development follows the reactivation of the older 60,000 bpd Port Harcourt Refinery in November 2024. With both facilities, Nigeria’s refining capacity is set to rise to 210,000 bpd, bringing the country closer to self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products.
A Milestone for Energy Security
The rehabilitation of the 150,000 bpd plant, originally commissioned in 1989, is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to revitalise its refining sector. For years, the country has heavily depended on fuel imports, despite being a major crude oil producer. Once operational, the upgraded refinery will not only meet domestic demand but also support exports, strengthening Nigeria’s economy and reducing foreign exchange outflows.
Current Progress and Future Outlook
NNPCL’s Abdullahi highlighted that the ongoing work adheres to global standards, aiming to deliver a world-class facility. He emphasised the potential impact of combining the capacities of the old and new Port Harcourt plants.
“Once fully operational, these refineries will supply sufficient fuel for local consumption and create surpluses for export,” he stated. Abdullahi assured stakeholders that the project is being closely monitored to ensure value for money and timely completion, though no specific operational start date has been announced.
Export Milestones Achieved
In a notable achievement, the rehabilitated 60,000 bpd refinery recently exported its first batch of refined petroleum products. The cargo, comprising low-sulphur straight-run fuel oil, was sold to Gulf Transport and Trading Limited, a Dubai-based company. This marks a critical step in Nigeria’s journey to becoming a net exporter of refined products.
Labour Leaders React
During their tour of the refinery, union leaders expressed optimism about the project’s impact on Nigeria’s energy landscape. Ibrahim Onoja, the refinery’s Managing Director, provided insights into the ongoing work, showcasing the scale and advanced nature of the facility.
Onoja stated, “This plant represents a significant leap in Nigeria’s refining capacity. The rehabilitation ensures we meet both domestic and international standards, bolstering energy independence.”
Challenges and Commitments
While progress has been substantial, the project faced delays and scepticism due to prior missed deadlines. However, recent advancements signal a renewed commitment by NNPCL to prioritise Nigeria’s energy needs. Industry experts believe that the successful completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery could inspire similar upgrades at other national refineries.
Implications for the Economy
Once the new plant becomes operational, it is expected to stabilise fuel supply, reduce dependence on imports, and create jobs across the value chain. Moreover, increased exports will generate additional revenue for the government, supporting broader economic growth.
The near-completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery upgrade marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to transform its downstream petroleum sector. By enhancing domestic refining capacity, the country is poised to reduce import reliance, stabilise fuel prices, and bolster economic resilience. With the backing of labour unions and a clear commitment from NNPCL, this project could set the stage for a new era of energy independence in Nigeria.
