Femi Soneye, the Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), announced the milestone on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

A Historic Achievement

“Today marks a monumental achievement for Nigeria as the Port Harcourt Refinery officially commences crude oil processing. This groundbreaking milestone signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for our nation,” Soneye stated.

He extended congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the NNPC Board, and the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, for their pivotal roles in the project. "Together, we are reshaping Nigeria’s energy future!” he added.

In addition to crude oil processing, truck-loading operations at the refinery began on the same day, indicating immediate efforts to improve fuel distribution across the country. Soneye also assured that NNPCL is working diligently to reactivate the Warri Refinery in the near future.

The resumption of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery is expected to reduce the country’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products, bolster the local economy, and potentially lower fuel prices. It is also seen as a critical step toward achieving the Federal Government’s energy security and industrial growth goals.

This development not only restores confidence in Nigeria’s refinery rehabilitation projects but also sets a hopeful precedent for similar efforts across the nation.