Port Harcourt Refinery bounced back to life on Tuesday after shutting down for five years.
The resumption of production was applauded by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who said this development would rekindle hope of efficient fuel supply.
“President Bola Tinubu extends his heartfelt congratulations to the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on the successful revitalisation of the Port Harcourt Refinery, marked by the official commencement of petroleum product loading on November 26,” a statement by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said.
The President also ordered the reactivation of Warri and Kaduna facilities to enhance effective supply.
The Port-Harcourt plant would operate at 60 per cent installed capacity, with 200 trucks loading petroleum products daily, Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL, Mallam Mele Kyari, said.
The resumption was after several failed attempts by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to restart the plant.
Speaking during a brief ceremony to mark the commencement of products loading at the refinery, Kyari described the load-out activities as a monumental achievement for Nigeria.
According to him, it signified a new era of energy independence and economic growth for the country, adding that the move was in fulfilment of the NNPCL’s resolve to re-stream the PHRC, signalling the commencement of crude oil processing from the plant and delivery of petroleum products into the market.
Kyari explained that trucks commenced loading of petrol, diesel and Kerosene, adding that other product slates will be dispatched as well.
He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and understanding towards the rehabilitation project and for his persistence to ensure energy security for the country.
Kyari also expressed appreciation to the NNPCL’s Board of Directors and the staff for their support and commitment, which climaxed in the streaming of the refinery.
He commended the contractors for doing a great job in ensuring that the refinery was delivered despite all challenges.
