The Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC) remains dormant despite assurances from authorities that it would commence operations approximately two weeks ago. Citizens, anticipating relief from the energy crisis, were disappointed by the delay in the refinery’s activation.

Stakeholders had hoped that the revitalization of the Port Harcourt refinery, along with others in Warri and Kaduna, would alleviate the country’s energy challenges and reduce the need for petroleum imports.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, had previously assured the Senate that the Port Harcourt refinery would begin producing refined petroleum products within two weeks. He also indicated that the Warri refinery was nearing readiness, with the Kaduna refinery expected to be operational by December of the same year.

Despite claims of completion of the refinery’s rehabilitation, regulatory and compliance tests are reportedly still ongoing. The NNPL Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that once these tests are concluded, the refinery will commence operations, citing adherence to global best practices.

This delay adds to the refinery’s history of missed deadlines. The refinery underwent repair works starting in March 2019, with subsequent delays pushing back completion dates. Despite these setbacks, the NNPCL remains optimistic about the refinery’s eventual activation and is exploring options to transfer its operations to private entities for improved efficiency.

The failure to restart the Port Harcourt refinery exacerbates Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products, contributing to economic challenges such as high inflation. However, hopes remain high that once operational, the refinery will boost local production, reduce reliance on imports, and stimulate economic growth.

SOURCE: NIGERIAN BULLETIN