The Port Harcourt Refinery, a key asset of the Nigerian state, has officially commenced crude oil processing. Femi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), confirmed the development on Tuesday, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to boost local refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
“Today marks a monumental achievement for Nigeria as the Port Harcourt Refinery officially commences crude oil processing. This groundbreaking milestone signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for our nation,” Soneye said on Tuesday.
“Hearty congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NNPC Board, and the exceptional leadership of GCEO Mele Kyari for their unwavering commitment to this transformative project. Together, we are reshaping Nigeria’s energy future!”
According to Soneye, truck loading will also commence on Tuesday (today), adding that the NNPCL is “working tirelessly to bring the Warri Refinery back online soon”.
Recall that Tribune Online reported in December last year that the Federal Government had announced the mechanical completion and flare start-off of Nigeria’s biggest crude refinery rehabilitation in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.