By John Umeh
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced the temporary shutdown of the Port Harcourt Refinery, one of the country’s major refining facilities, for scheduled maintenance activities. The shutdown, which began on May 24, 2025, is part of a strategic effort to enhance operational efficiency and ensure long-term performance reliability of the refinery.
In a statement issued by the company’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, NNPCL explained that the decision to halt operations is necessary to carry out essential checks and maintenance on the refinery’s systems. The company emphasized that this is not a setback but rather a proactive step aimed at securing the plant’s future capacity and output.
“This planned shutdown is part of a critical stage in our efforts to restore the Port Harcourt Refinery to optimal functionality,” the statement read. “We are working closely with key regulatory bodies, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure that the maintenance process is transparent, efficient, and completed within schedule.”
A Long-Awaited Turnaround
The Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) comprises two refining units: an older unit with a capacity of 60,000 barrels per day (bpd) and a newer one capable of processing 150,000 bpd. Combined, they make the refinery one of the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, with a total capacity of 210,000 bpd. Despite this, the facility has struggled to produce refined petroleum products consistently over the years, largely due to outdated infrastructure and poor maintenance.
In 2021, the Federal Government approved a $1.5 billion rehabilitation project for the refinery, raising hopes that it would be brought back to full capacity. However, the road to recovery has been rocky, marked by delays, cost overruns, and public skepticism. The current shutdown represents another phase in the long rehabilitation journey, and NNPCL has assured the public that it remains committed to completing the work successfully.
Fuel Supply Concerns and Public Assurance
The temporary closure has sparked anxiety among fuel marketers and consumers, who fear that the development could lead to fuel shortages or price increases in the short term. However, NNPCL moved quickly to calm these fears, stating that it has put measures in place to maintain stable supply and avoid disruptions during the maintenance period.
“We have made adequate arrangements to ensure uninterrupted distribution of petroleum products across the country,” Soneye assured. “Our depots and supply chains are operating at full capacity, and there is no need for panic buying.”
Challenges in the Refining Sector
The shutdown of the Port Harcourt Refinery once again highlights the persistent challenges facing Nigeria’s downstream oil sector. For decades, the country has remained heavily dependent on imported refined petroleum products despite being a major crude oil producer. The inability of local refineries to operate efficiently has been a key reason for this dependency.
Furthermore, there have been growing concerns about the transparency and accountability surrounding the billions of dollars allocated for refinery repairs. Recent investigations by anti-corruption agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), have raised questions about how funds meant for refurbishment have been spent over the years.
A Step Toward Energy Independence
While the shutdown may cause short-term uncertainty, NNPCL insists that it is a necessary part of a broader effort to restore Nigeria’s refining capabilities. Once completed, the rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery is expected to significantly reduce the country’s reliance on imported fuel, improve local supply, and contribute to long-term energy security.
The NNPCL has pledged to provide regular updates to stakeholders and the general public throughout the maintenance period and assured Nigerians that the refinery will be brought back on stream as soon as possible.
