The Port Harcourt Refinery, owned by the Nigerian government, has officially resumed production after years of anticipation and multiple missed deadlines.
Olufemi Soneye, the spokesperson for the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), confirmed the development on Tuesday.
“The refinery has started operations with an initial processing capacity of 60,000 barrels per day,” Soneye stated. This represents 60% of the refinery’s phase-one capacity, while its total installed capacity stands at 250,000 barrels per day.
The announcement marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to revive its refining sector and reduce dependence on imported fuel.
“This is a step in the right direction after several delays. We remain committed to achieving full operational capacity soon,” Soneye added.
The Port Harcourt Refinery, plagued by years of neglect and missed deadlines for rehabilitation, now holds promise as a key player in bolstering Nigeria’s energy sector.