NNPC Affirms Port Harcourt Refinery Delivers High-Quality Products, Operates Daily Truck Loading

The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Limited has reiterated its commitment to producing premium petroleum products at the Port Harcourt Refinery. According to the corporation, trucks are loaded daily to maintain a steady supply chain, dispelling rumors about the refinery’s operations.

NNPC’s Statement on Refinery Operations

NNPC spokesperson, Olufemi Soneye, addressed public concerns through a post on his official X account (formerly Twitter) on Friday. Soneye confirmed that routine operations, including the daily loading of trucks, are ongoing at the refinery, emphasizing its adherence to international standards.

He stated:
“The Port Harcourt Refinery operates in strict compliance with global best practices, ensuring the production of top-quality petroleum products. Following the ceremonial truck load-out event, routine loading operations have progressed smoothly. Trucks are being loaded daily to maintain a consistent and dependable supply chain.”

Soneye also urged the public to disregard misinformation, emphasizing NNPC’s commitment to transparency and meeting the nation’s energy needs.

Addressing Controversies

The refinery’s recent reactivation has sparked debates over its functionality:

1. Allegations of Non-Processing: Reports suggest the refinery is not refining crude oil but blending naphtha with crack 5 to produce gasoline. NNPC dismissed these claims, clarifying that blending is a standard practice in refining.
2. Limited Distribution: Some marketers have expressed concerns about not receiving products from the refinery. NNPC responded, stating that initial supplies are directed to its retail outlets and bulk distribution has not yet begun.
3. Pricing Disputes: Tensions between NNPC and marketers over product pricing have added to the ongoing discussions.

Key Facts About the Port Harcourt Refinery

• Built in 1965, the refinery has an original capacity to process 90,000 barrels of crude oil daily.
• It has faced decades of operational challenges, contributing to Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
• NNPC announced in 2023 that the refinery resumed operations and aims to restore functionality at the Warri Refinery as well.

Commitment to Energy Security

NNPC remains steadfast in its efforts to optimize the Port Harcourt Refinery and bolster Nigeria’s energy security. By ensuring consistent truck loading and addressing misinformation, the corporation aims to reassure stakeholders of its transparency and resolve to reduce import dependency.

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