Port Harcourt Refinery Nears Completion: Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Provides Update

The Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) is currently in the midst of a test run, as confirmed by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri.

The confirmation of the ongoing test run at the Port Harcourt Refining Company indicates a positive trajectory in the efforts to revitalize the facility. Minister Lokpobiri’s statement underscores the commitment of the government to address the challenges facing the nation’s refining sector. The test-run phase is a critical step in assessing the operational readiness of the refinery, ensuring that it meets the required standards for safe and efficient production of refined petroleum products.

The Port Harcourt Refinery holds immense economic significance for Nigeria. As one of the country’s major refining facilities, its operational status directly impacts the nation’s energy sector, domestic fuel supply, and overall economic stability. Minister Lokpobiri’s emphasis on the refinery’s importance highlights the government’s recognition of its role in contributing to the country’s economic well-being. A fully operational PHRC would not only enhance energy security but also reduce the dependence on imported refined petroleum products, thereby saving valuable foreign exchange.

Speaking to journalists about the refinery’s status, Lokpobiri emphasized its significance to the country’s economic well-being. He assured that refined petroleum products from the facility would soon be available in the market, highlighting the completion of the mechanical aspect of the refinery.

Minister Lokpobiri’s assurance of the soon-to-be availability of refined petroleum products stems from the successful completion of the mechanical aspect of the refinery. This achievement marks a significant milestone in the rehabilitation process. The mechanical aspect involves the restoration and upgrade of essential equipment and machinery necessary for the refining process. The successful completion of this phase lays the foundation for subsequent testing and commissioning, ultimately leading to the full-scale production of refined products.

“I believe that very soon products will start coming from there… and the Warri refinery is in top gear.”

The minister, who didn’t give a timeline, however, expressed optimism that in a few months, there would be enough petroleum products in the country.

“If you ask me, in the next few months, we would have tremendously increased our refining capacity.

“So I believe that very soon the Port Harcourt refinery and the other refineries will all come on stream,” he said.

Meanwhile, it was reported in December 2023 that the PHRC had resumed operations several months after it was shut down for rehabilitation by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL).

Business Day quoted Amaka Okafor, Special Assistant to the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, who confirmed the resumption of operation at the refinery by saying, “Yes, the refinery is set, we will visit the refinery site today to kickstart its operation.”

The ongoing test-run at the Port Harcourt Refining Company, coupled with the completion of the mechanical aspect, signals a positive outlook for the nation’s refining sector. As the government continues its efforts to revitalize refineries across the country, the successful rehabilitation of the PHRC holds promise for increased domestic production, reduced import dependency, and enhanced energy security. Minister Lokpobiri’s update serves as a testament to the government’s commitment to addressing the challenges in the refining sector and underscores the importance of strategic investments in ensuring a robust and self-sufficient energy landscape for Nigeria.