Victor Ezeja
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has confirmed that the test run on the 60,000-barrels-per-day (bpd) Port Harcourt refinery is on course and would be concluded this month.
Femi Soneye, the NNPCL’s spokesperson, gave the affirmation on Thursday that the impending completion of testing will ensure the refinery’s efficient functionality, marking a milestone in the refinery’s journey towards full operation.
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“Testing will conclude shortly, ensuring the refinery’s efficient operation. That phase will be completed this month,” Soneye stated.
The refinery, presently undergoing repair works, is slated to commence operations at an initial processing rate of 60,000 barrels per day. The NNPCL is optimistic about reaching its maximum capacity of 210,000 barrels per day later in the year when it completes rehabilitation of the new plant that can operate at 150,000 bpd.
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This development is part of the government’s concerted effort to revitalize the state-owned refineries, aimed at reducing the nation’s reliance on imported refined products.
Notably, the successful completion of the Area 5 section of the Port Harcourt refinery in December marked a step forward, with mechanical completion and flare start-up achieved.
The refurbishment of the Port Harcourt refinery was kickstarted in March 2021 with a $1.5 billion contract awarded to Italian company Tecnimont SPA. Divided into three phases spanning 18, 24, and 44 months, the project aims to bring the refinery back to its full operational capacity.
Mallam Mele Kyari, the CEO of the NNPCL, has further outlined plans, confirming that the second phase of repair works at the Port Harcourt refinery is scheduled for completion by the fourth quarter of 2024.
This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s broader goal of ending fuel imports and reducing the impact of fuel price fluctuations driven by forex market volatility. The ongoing efforts also include the forthcoming operation of the 650,000 bpd Dangote refinery, alongside refineries in Kaduna and Warri set to resume operations before 2024 ends.
The removal of the fuel subsidy in June has led to a notable surge in petrol prices, surpassing a 200% increase, consequently raising transportation costs for the average Nigerian. These developments underscore the urgency and significance of the ongoing refinery revitalization efforts in Nigeria.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
