NNPCL Admits Setbacks in PH Refinery Completion

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has explained the delay in the completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery, citing unforeseen challenges during its rehabilitation.

NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, told newsmen on Monday that the refinery encountered risks typical of ‘brownfield projects’ those involving the renovation of existing facilities. He confirmed that mechanical completion was achieved months ago, but commissioning of critical equipment faced unexpected issues. However, Soneye assured that these challenges have now been resolved and commissioning activities are underway again.

Despite repeated missed deadlines, the NNPC has refrained from offering a new completion timeline, with Soneye only stating that the project would be finished shortly. The refinery has faced multiple delays, including a failed September 2024 deadline, leaving Nigerians frustrated.

The Port Harcourt Refinery, part of the federal government’s three major refineries, has been inactive for years, and its rehabilitation is seen as crucial to reducing fuel imports and lowering domestic fuel prices. While the government secured a $1.5 billion loan for its renovation in 2021, the project has been slow-moving.

Nigerians remain hopeful that its completion will ease the country’s reliance on imported refined products, though transparency around the project’s timeline remains a major concern.