NNPCL Announces Shut Down of Port Harcourt Refinery, See Why
In a significant step that highlights its dedication to sustainable energy developments, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced plans for a shutdown of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) for extensive maintenance work. This shutdown, set to last for a month, will officially kick off on Saturday, May 24, 2025, with the goal of boosting operational efficiency and ensuring compliance with long-term safety standards.
The announcement came from NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, following earlier reports by Saturday PUNCH that hinted at an impending halt in refinery operations. Soneye confirmed that this temporary closure is a proactive safety initiative and part of a well-thought-out sustainability review.
“NNPC Ltd wishes to inform the public that the Port Harcourt Refining Company will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown,” Soneye said. “This scheduled operation is vital for maintaining the safe and sustainable functioning of the facility, and it aligns with global best practices.”
He further noted that the maintenance efforts will be carried out in partnership with important regulatory agencies, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). According to Soneye, the process will focus on transparency, efficiency, and accountability.
“We are collaborating closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that our activities are conducted with complete transparency and minimal disruption to the energy supply chain,” he added.
The NNPCL has assured the public that they have put in place adequate measures to ensure that the supply of petroleum products remains uninterrupted during the maintenance shutdown. They claim that current stocks of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel), kerosene, and other essential products are more than enough to satisfy the nation's needs throughout this period.
However, despite these assurances, reactions from the local community have been mixed. In Eleme, Rivers State, where the refinery is located, some local fuel retailers have expressed doubt, suggesting that the shutdown might stem from internal sabotage. They point out that past maintenance efforts have not resulted in any significant improvements in the refinery's output, raising concerns about the timing and intentions behind this shutdown.
In response to these suspicions, NNPCL has categorically rejected such claims. Soneye emphasized that this shutdown is a standard procedure focused on safety and does not involve any internal issues or mismanagement. 'There is no sabotage involved. This is a carefully planned operation aimed at boosting the refinery’s capacity and enhancing its overall performance,' he explained.
The Port Harcourt Refinery, which is one of Nigeria’s critical refining assets, is currently undergoing phased rehabilitation as part of the federal government's larger initiative to enhance domestic refining capabilities and lessen reliance on imported petroleum products. Over the years, the facility has faced challenges due to aging infrastructure and minimal upgrades.
According to industry experts, the ongoing shutdown is a vital step in a series of technical and structural improvements needed to bring the refinery back to full operational capacity. Once fully functional, the Port Harcourt Refinery is expected to play a major role in stabilizing fuel prices, bolstering local supply, and reinforcing Nigeria’s energy independence.
This development aligns with NNPCL’s strategic goal of evolving into a fully commercial entity that can compete on a global level. Under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), the company is committed to improving efficiency, transparency, and value delivery across Nigeria's oil and gas sector.
'NNPCL is dedicated to providing sustainable energy solutions to all Nigerians,' Soneye stated. 'We urge the public to stay updated through our official communication channels for more information.' As the shutdown continues, industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, and the Nigerian populace will keep a close watch, hoping that this maintenance effort could signify a pivotal moment in the long-overdue revival of Nigeria’s domestic refining capabilities.
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