Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has announced another delay in the launch of the Port Harcourt Refinery, marking it sixth postponement since it was constructed.
The refinery which was originally scheduled to commence operations in 2021, has faced repeated delays due to technical, financial and logistical problems severally. The latest setback has raised concern about Nigeria’s energy infrastructure and refining ability.
Despite assurances from NNPC’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari, that it would run by early August this year, some inside sources have stated it is taking more time than expected to do repairs and upgrades.
The port Harcourt Refinery, with an output capacity of 210,000 barrels of crude oil per day, is critical for enhancing domestic fuel supply thereby fostering economic development in Nigeria. However, repeated postponement on this project has raised doubts about its viability or even the capability of NNPC to handle hefty projects.
This lack of indication on when NNPC will go ahead with launching their refinery, has angered many industry stakeholders and the general public.
NNPC’s representative Olufemi Soneye said briefly that the project is “on course” though he didn’t elaborate nor give any revised dates for completion of such a huge establishment.
The delayed launch of the Port Harcourt Refinery holds critical importance for Nigeria’s energy security and socioeconomic growth as it relies largely on imported refined petroleum products.
