Again Port Harcourt Refinery Shuts Down Weeks After Reopening

The Port Harcourt Refinery has halted operations less than a month after it seemingly resumed production.

On Thursday, December 19, 2024, it was observed that the facility had ceased lifting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), leaving its previously bustling loading bay deserted.

This development comes after initial fanfare surrounding the refinery’s reopening following a $1.5 billion rehabilitation effort approved in 2021.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that during the inauguration on November 26, 2024, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) CEO, Mele Kyari, announced the refinery’s return to production, with a 60,000-barrel-per-day capacity.

However, stakeholders have alleged that the petrol lifted during the launch was old stock, with minimal activity since.

While limited lifting of PMS resumed briefly, operations reportedly stopped entirely on December 13. Truck drivers and petroleum marketers expressed frustration over the lack of information and transparency regarding the stoppage.

One driver disclosed that the last loading occurred a week ago, involving fewer than 15 trucks. A marketer, Mr. Dappa Jubobaraye, criticized the state of the refinery, calling the inauguration a deceptive show meant to give the impression of functionality.

Jubobaraye further alleged that only three of the refinery’s 18 loading arms are operational, all dedicated to PMS, with none handling diesel or kerosene. He also highlighted leakages and calibration issues, describing the facility’s current operations as inefficient and incapable of meeting demand.

Efforts to contact NNPC spokesperson Femi Soneye for clarification were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages. The refinery’s sudden halt has reignited concerns about the effectiveness of the government’s investment in reviving Nigeria’s refining capacity.

Port Harcourt Refinery Shuts Down

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