The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has applauded the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for the successful rehabilitation and continuous operation of the Port Harcourt refinery for 180 days.
After more than 20 years of inactivity, the refinery was brought back to life through a rehabilitation project funded by a loan from Afreximbank and executed by Tecnimont Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of the Maire Tecnimont Group. The facility resumed operations in November 2024, following its commissioning in October.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Joseph Obele, PETROAN praised the efforts of Tecnimont Nigeria Limited for delivering a “world-class rehabilitation project,” highlighting the technical expertise and professionalism that facilitated the refinery’s successful restoration.
“The refinery, which was commissioned in October 2024, has been running continuously for 180 days, up to March, a remarkable feat that underscores the effectiveness of the rehabilitation project,” the statement read.
Improved Supply Chain and Product Quality
According to PETROAN, the refinery’s operational success has significantly enhanced the supply of petroleum products across the country. The association noted that its members are currently loading diesel and kerosene from the facility, while NNPCL retail marketers are distributing Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).
“This development has not only ensured a steady supply of petroleum products but has also helped to eliminate the circulation of fake kerosene and diesel in the market,” PETROAN added.
The association also commended the Port Harcourt refinery’s Managing Director, Ibrahim Onoja, for his dedication and leadership throughout the rehabilitation and operational phases.
Government and Stakeholder Recognition
PETROAN extended its gratitude to key government officials and agencies for their roles in the successful rehabilitation project. Special recognition was given to President Bola Tinubu for providing the necessary funds, and the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, for his oversight during the process.
The statement further acknowledged the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL, Mele Kyari, for his leadership and commitment, as well as the Managing Director of NNPC Retail Ltd, Hubb Stockman, for ensuring effective product distribution.
The Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) was also praised for its regulatory oversight, which PETROAN described as instrumental in ensuring the refinery’s safe and efficient operation.
Community Support
PETROAN acknowledged the cooperation of host communities during the rehabilitation process, emphasizing their role in maintaining a supportive environment for the successful execution of the project.
The 180-day uninterrupted operation of the Port Harcourt refinery marks a significant milestone for Nigeria’s petroleum sector, offering renewed hope for improved local refining capacity and reduced dependence on imported fuel products.