NNPCL Invites Obasanjo to Tour Port Harcourt Refinery

NNPCL Invites Obasanjo to Tour Port Harcourt Refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has extended an invitation to former President Olusegun Obasanjo for a tour of the Port Harcourt Refinery (PHR) to assess its operational status.

The invitation follows Obasanjo’s recent remarks during an interview with Channels Television, where he alleged that Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) had advised that the refinery would struggle to function effectively. According to Obasanjo, SPDC expressed concerns about corruption affecting the refinery’s operations when approached to acquire equity in the facility. He further accused NNPCL of misleading Nigerians about the refinery’s functionality.

In response, Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, refuted Obasanjo's claims, emphasizing the company's commitment to transparency and accountability. He invited the former president to visit the facility and witness the progress made.

“We invite our esteemed former president to join us in this effort as we continue to deliver energy security for our nation and provide tangible benefits to Nigerians. His wisdom and experience are invaluable, and we assure him that his advice will always be welcomed and appreciated,” Soneye stated.

Soneye noted that NNPCL has undertaken a comprehensive overhaul of the Port Harcourt Refinery, describing it as a transformation beyond the routine Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) of the past.

“This is not a mere Turnaround Maintenance but a comprehensive overhaul aligned with global standards. The revitalization of refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna underscores NNPCL’s commitment to Nigeria’s energy security,” he added.

The company also highlighted its evolution from a government-owned corporation to a private, profit-oriented global energy company.

“NNPC Limited has transitioned into an integrated energy company, achieving notable milestones, including the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries. We remain committed to transparency and accountability in our operations,” Soneye said.

Addressing media reports about the alleged halt in crude oil supply to the Dangote Refinery, Soneye dismissed them as baseless, stating, “No need to respond to falsehood.”

The NNPCL spokesperson emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders like Obasanjo to ensure Nigeria's energy security and development.

“We deeply respect and hold President Obasanjo in the highest regard as a distinguished statesman. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for our great nation,” Soneye concluded.