The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has officially announced that the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) will undergo a scheduled maintenance shutdown beginning May 24, 2025, as part of its operational sustainability and performance optimization efforts.
In a statement issued by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, NNPC Ltd. explained that the planned maintenance and sustainability assessment are in line with global best practices for refinery operations. The exercise is expected to enhance the efficiency, safety, and reliability of the Port Harcourt refinery—one of Nigeria’s key refining assets. “This scheduled maintenance activity is essential to ensuring the long-term operational performance of the facility. It forms part of NNPC Ltd.’s broader commitment to delivering sustainable energy security and improving the integrity of the nation’s refining infrastructure,” the statement noted.
The company further disclosed that it is working collaboratively with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and other critical stakeholders to ensure that the maintenance activities are carried out effectively, safely, and transparently.
While the shutdown may temporarily affect local refining output, NNPC Ltd. has assured the public that it has put in place necessary arrangements to mitigate any potential impact on the supply of petroleum products across the country. “We want to reassure Nigerians that product availability will be sustained throughout the maintenance period. NNPC Ltd., in collaboration with its partners, has made adequate provisions to ensure seamless product distribution and minimal disruption to supply,” the statement added.
The PHRC, currently undergoing phased rehabilitation, had partially resumed operations following key restoration works. The planned maintenance is seen as a crucial step toward full-scale resumption of refining capacity and is consistent with the federal government’s drive to revamp Nigeria’s domestic refining sector and reduce dependence on fuel imports.
NNPC Ltd. urged the public to rely solely on official communication channels—including its website and verified media platforms—for updates regarding the progress of the maintenance activities. “We remain committed to transparency and accountability in all our operations. Regular updates will be provided to keep stakeholders informed of the progress of this vital maintenance exercise,” Soneye affirmed.
The Port Harcourt refinery is a critical national asset comprising two refineries with a combined capacity of 210,000 barrels per day. Its successful rehabilitation and operation are seen as vital to achieving Nigeria’s energy self-sufficiency goals and supporting broader economic stability.
