Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for successfully revitalising the Port Harcourt refinery, expressing optimism about its potential to reduce fuel prices and boost the economy.
The NNPCL announced on Tuesday that the 60,000 barrels-per-day refinery has resumed operations. This development has generated excitement across the country, as many Nigerians hope it will reduce the nation’s dependency on petrol imports and ease the pressure on fuel prices.
In a statement on Wednesday, Obi congratulated the NNPCL for fulfilling its long-standing promise to overhaul the facility. “I wish to congratulate the NNPCL for fulfilling the long-standing promise of revamping the old Port Harcourt refinery,” Obi said.
Highlighting the refinery’s capacity, he added, “The refinery, which comes on stream today, boasts an installed production capacity of 60,000 barrels of crude oil per day. Approximately 200 trucks are expected to load products daily from the refinery. Nigerians now await the corresponding impact and benefits on pump prices and the overall economy.”
Obi also expressed hope for the revitalisation of other refineries, particularly the Kaduna refinery, describing the news as “promising.” However, he underscored the need for transparency in the operations of the NNPCL to ensure the benefits reach all Nigerians.
“While we acknowledge these achievements as a step in the right direction, it is crucial to emphasise the importance of transparency in the operations of the NNPCL. Nigerians deserve clarity and accountability regarding the management of the nation’s vital oil resources, ensuring that the benefits of increased refining capacity reach every Nigerian and that the gains are used to support long-term development,” Obi stated.
The successful rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt refinery marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy sector. Many stakeholders and citizens are now looking forward to further developments that will enhance the country’s refining capacity and reduce its reliance on imported petroleum products.
