 has provided clarity on the prolonged delay in completing the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, attributing it to unexpected challenges typical of brownfield projects.){kind=link}
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has provided clarity on the prolonged delay in completing the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, attributing it to unexpected challenges typical of brownfield projects.
Chief Corporate Communications Officer Olufemi Soneye disclosed that while mechanical completion was achieved months ago, unforeseen risks during the commissioning of critical equipment and process units caused significant setbacks.
“Mechanical completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery revamp was successfully achieved several months ago, marking a major milestone,” Soneye explained.
“However, as is common with brownfield projects of this scale and complexity, we encountered unforeseen risks and challenges. These issues have since been effectively resolved, and commissioning activities have resumed.”
Soneye emphasized that work is now progressing around the clock to ensure the project’s successful completion. However, the NNPC has refrained from announcing a new deadline after missing several previous targets. When asked about a timeline, the spokesperson stated, “Shortly.”
The Port Harcourt refinery, operational since 1965, is one of three facilities owned by the Federal Government and managed by the NNPC. It has remained non-functional for years, prompting hopes that its revival will reduce Nigeria’s reliance on fuel imports and potentially lower fuel prices.
Nigerians are eager for the refinery’s completion, viewing it as a crucial step toward enhancing local refining capacity and easing the burden of high fuel costs.
The NNPC has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering the project as soon as possible, highlighting the significance of the refinery to the nation’s energy security.