NNPCL debunks counterclaims, says Port Harcourt refinery producing fuel

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has debunked claims by some individuals that the Port Harcourt refinery in Rivers State is not producing products.

The Port Harcourt refinery, managed by the NNPCL through the Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited (PHRC), commenced operations after undergoing rehabilitation and modernisation on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.

The NNPCL also shared pictures of trucks lifting fuel from the refinery.

Some individuals later expressed scepticism about the development, saying it was an attempt to deceive Nigerians that the refinery had commenced operations.

Speaking on the reactions that trailed the refinery operations, the NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said the Port Harcourt Refinery is currently operating at 70% of its installed capacity, with plans to ramp up to 90%.

PHOTOS: NNPCL trucks lift fuel from Port Harcourt refinery

Soneye disclosed that the refinery is producing Straight-Run Gasoline (Naphtha) blended into 1.4 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), fondly called petrol; 900,000 litres of kerosene; 1.5 million litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), otherwise known as diesel; 2.1 million litres of Low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO); and additional volumes of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), well known as cooking gas.

Soneye added: “It is worth noting that the refinery incorporates crack C5, a blending component from our sister company, Indorama Petrochemicals (formerly Eleme Petrochemicals), to produce gasoline that meets required specifications. Blending is a standard practice in refineries globally, as no single unit can produce gasoline that fully complies with any country’s standards without such processes.

“Additionally, we have made substantial progress on the new Port Harcourt Refinery, which will begin operations soon without prior announcements.

“We urge Nigerians to focus on the remarkable achievements being realised under the able and progressive leadership of President Bola Tinubu and to support efforts aimed at delivering more dividends to the nation. Malicious attacks on clear progress only undermine the significant strides made by NNPC Ltd and the country.

“Let us move forward together in building a stronger and more self-sufficient energy sector.”

The Star