The Port Harcourt Refinery, originally established in 1965, has undergone a remarkable transformation, earning accolades from former Group Managing Directors (GMDs) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC).
During an on-site inspection on Wednesday, the ex-leaders praised the current management under Mr. Mele Kyari for their bold efforts in rehabilitating the refinery. The visit was part of their Former NNPC GCEOs Forum, held in Port Harcourt.
Dr. Jackson Gaius-Obaseki, Chamberlain Oyibo, Funsho Kupolokun, and Andrew Yakubu were among the dignitaries who commended the modernization initiative, describing it as an impressive milestone for Nigeria’s energy sector.
Speaking on the achievement, Dr. Gaius-Obaseki remarked, “Rehabilitating a plant that was originally built in 1965 is no small feat. This effort deserves appreciation and continued support to ensure sustained service to Nigerians.”
Engr. Andrew Yakubu added, “Attempts to revamp these plants in the past failed, but this team has delivered results. The columns, heat exchangers, and desalters are functional, and real refining is taking place.”
While celebrating the Port Harcourt refinery’s progress, the former GMDs called on NNPC Limited to channel similar efforts into reviving the Warri and Kaduna refineries, emphasizing the importance of these facilities in boosting Nigeria’s refining capacity and reducing dependency on fuel imports.
The transformation of the Port Harcourt Refinery is seen as a significant step toward achieving energy self-sufficiency and reflects the determination of NNPC’s leadership to modernize Nigeria’s downstream sector.
