The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has revealed that the new 150,000 barrels per day Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) complex will commence operations by mid-2025. This development, announced by NNPCL Group CEO Mele Kyari during a media briefing in Rivers State, marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to boost local refining capacity.
Kyari also confirmed that the old refinery complex, which recently resumed full operations, has the capacity to support 200,000 trucks daily with various petroleum products. He noted that delays in completing the new complex were largely due to the complete overhaul of outdated machinery with brand-new equipment.
Road Infrastructure Challenges Addressed
Concerns about potential traffic disruptions on the Eleme Road, a critical route to the refinery, were raised during the tour. Kyari disclosed that the road has been included in the tax credit scheme, allowing the NNPC Limited to repair roads nationwide in exchange for tax waivers.
Truck Loading Commences
Chief Corporate Communications Officer Femi Soneye announced the start of truck loading operations at the old Port Harcourt refinery, with similar plans underway for the Warri Refinery.
A Milestone After Years of Import Dependency
The Federal Government allocated $1.5 billion in 2021 for the Port Harcourt refinery’s repairs, following its shutdown two years prior. Despite being a leading crude oil producer, Nigeria has long relied on petroleum imports due to inadequate refining capacity. President Bola Tinubu’s subsidy removal in 2023, which led to increased petrol prices, further underscored the urgent need for functional local refineries.
This move represents a significant step towards reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuels while addressing critical economic challenges.
