The Port Harcourt Refinery has officially resumed operations following a comprehensive renovation and modernization project that began in 2021. The Federal Government secured a $1.5 billion contract to rehabilitate the facility, aiming to restore its production capacity and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products.
First petroleum product deliveries are scheduled for Tuesday, supervised by the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mallam Mele Kyari. Kyari toured the facility on Monday night to inspect the final preparations.
Located in Alesa Eleme, Port Harcourt, the refinery complex consists of two units established in 1965 and 1989, with a combined installed capacity of 210,000 barrels per day. The older unit processes 60,000 barrels per stream day, while the newer unit has a capacity of 150,000 barrels per day.
The refinery is set to produce premium motor spirit (PMS), diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), among other products. Its operation is expected to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports, alleviate foreign exchange pressures associated with importation, and contribute to domestic energy security.
This development marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to revitalize its refining sector, aligning with the government’s goal to achieve energy self-sufficiency.
