The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has discredited recent claims made by one Timothy Mgbere, a self-described “community person,” regarding the state of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery. In a viral video, Mgbere alleged that the reported restart and distribution of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) from the facility were false.
In a statement issued by Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd. described Mgbere’s assertions as a “crass display of ignorance” and provided key clarifications:
- Unified Refinery Operations: Contrary to Mgbere’s claim that the Old Port Harcourt Refinery is only partially operational and not processing PMS, NNPC explained that both the Old and New Port Harcourt Refineries have been integrated. They now operate through a single terminal, sharing utilities such as power and storage tanks. Therefore, PMS can be dispatched from either facility’s storage tanks through the same gantry.
- Contradictory Claims: Mgbere alleged that PMS loaded at the New Port Harcourt Refinery was “old stock” from the Old Refinery. NNPC refuted this, questioning how “old stock” could be transported if the refineries are supposedly disconnected, as Mgbere implied.
- Misrepresentation of Capacity: Mgbere also claimed the refinery produces 1.4 million barrels of oil per day, a figure NNPC labeled as “wildly inaccurate.” The company clarified that the refinery has a nameplate capacity of 60,000 barrels per day and is currently operating at 90% capacity, producing 1.4 million liters of PMS, along with other products like diesel and kerosene.
NNPC urged the public to disregard Mgbere’s statements, emphasizing that they are based on misinformation and aimed at misleading Nigerians.
“We remain committed to providing accurate information and ensuring transparency in our operations,” the statement concluded.
