Nigeria's national oil company announces shutdown of state-owned refinery
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), in its caretaker capacity, has announced the immediate shutdown of operations at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) due to a scheduled maintenance exercise commencing today, May 24, 2025.
NNPC Ltd announced the temporary shutdown of Port Harcourt Refinery for scheduled maintenance starting May 24, 2025.
The maintenance aims to enhance efficiency, ensure sustainability, and reduce reliance on fuel imports.
The shutdown raises concerns about persistent issues in Nigeria's refining infrastructure and performance.
The shutdown was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by Femi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, who stated that the closure is temporary and intended to enhance the refinery's efficiency and ensure its long-term viability.
The statement read: 'The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) wishes to inform the general public that the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown."
'This scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment will commence on May 24, 2025.' Soneye added.
According to NNPC Ltd, the maintenance operation will be conducted in coordination with relevant agencies, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure transparency and technical precision throughout the process.
'We are working closely with all relevant stakeholders to ensure the maintenance and assessment activities are carried out efficiently and transparently, ' Soneye said.
NNPC Ltd reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing energy infrastructure and ensuring sustainable energy security for Nigerians.
The company noted that the maintenance exercise is part of its broader efforts to boost national refining capacity and reduce reliance on fuel imports.
It also pledged to keep the public informed through regular updates on its official website and media channels during the maintenance period, and to implement measures to mitigate any potential disruptions to affected parties.
Nigeria's refinery challenges
However, this latest shutdown comes amid fresh scrutiny of PHRC's inconsistent performance, with concerns over transparency and accountability.
The facility has been burdened by years of underperformance, failed upgrade plans, and rehabilitation setbacks; despite several rounds of funding and government guarantees.
Just last month, NNPC Ltd dismissed PHRC's Managing Director, citing internal investigation reports and accountability issues, project delays, and alleged mismanagement of rehabilitation funds.
Although today's maintenance announcement is seen as essential upkeep to maintain and improve production, critics argue it highlights deeper flaws in Nigeria's refining strategy, particularly at Port Harcourt Refinery, which remains unable to achieve steady production despite years of major overhaul efforts.
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