The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd. has successfully re-streamed the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward energy independence.
The refinery has commenced crude oil processing, with petroleum products now being delivered to the market.
This development was announced by Olufemi Soneye, NNPC Ltd’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, who confirmed that trucks began loading Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and Household Kerosene (HHK) from the Port Harcourt facility on Tuesday. Other products are expected to follow in due course.
During a ceremony to commemorate the refinery’s return to operation, NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari hailed the event as a historic achievement for Nigeria. He emphasized that the refinery’s functionality is a pivotal step toward energy security and economic growth.
Kyari credited President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his steadfast support in ensuring the success of the rehabilitation project.
“This milestone signifies a new era of energy independence for Nigeria. I thank President Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to energy security and the entire NNPC Board and staff for their dedication to this achievement,” Kyari stated.
He also lauded the contractors for overcoming challenges to deliver the project and thanked Nigerians for their patience and high expectations as the company works toward revamping other refineries.
Farouk Ahmed, Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream & Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), congratulated NNPC Ltd on the achievement and pledged continued regulatory support for the completion of rehabilitation work on Nigeria’s other refineries.
The PHRC rehabilitation project, which falls under the Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Commissioning (EPCIC) framework, has reached over 16 million manhours with zero Loss Time Injury (LTI)**—a testament to the project’s commitment to safety.
The re-streaming of the Port Harcourt Refinery signals progress in Nigeria’s bid to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
As work continues on the nation’s other refineries, this milestone is expected to contribute significantly to energy availability, job creation, and economic stability.
With this success, Nigerians can look forward to improved petroleum product availability and a reduction in the cost and logistics associated with fuel imports. The achievement represents a beacon of hope for a self-sufficient energy future.