Second Shutdown in Less Than a Month
The Port Harcourt Refinery, recently touted as a milestone for Nigeria’s energy independence, has halted operations once more, sparking widespread concern. Despite the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announcing its resumption on November 26, the refinery ceased loading Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) on December 19. By December 13, the once-busy loading bay was abandoned, with idle tankers parked both inside and outside the premises.
Unmet Expectations After Expensive Rehabilitation
The $1.5 billion rehabilitation project had raised hopes of ending Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports, but the shutdown has left stakeholders questioning its effectiveness. Reports suggest only the Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) was operational, capable of producing naphtha, kerosene, and diesel but not PMS. Insiders revealed that NNPCL resorted to blending Crack C5 and naphtha to simulate PMS, a move industry experts warn could compromise vehicle performance.
Discrepancies in NNPCL’s Production Claims
During the refinery’s relaunch, NNPCL claimed it loaded 200 trucks with PMS, but sources indicate fewer than 10 trucks carried petrol, which came from old storage stock. This discrepancy has fueled skepticism about the transparency and efficacy of the rehabilitation efforts. Observers also noted the deserted state of the refinery, casting doubt on the NNPCL’s narrative.
Criticism of Accountability and Oversight
Stakeholders are now questioning the accountability of the $1.5 billion project, especially as this marks the second shutdown since the November reopening. Initial operations reportedly focused only on non-petroleum units, further emphasizing the refinery’s inability to meet the promised capacity. The shutdown has reignited debates about Nigeria’s approach to refining and energy policy.
Impact on Nigeria’s Energy Self-Sufficiency Goals
The Port Harcourt Refinery was expected to spearhead Nigeria’s move toward energy self-sufficiency, but its repeated operational issues threaten this vision. Industry experts argue that systemic inefficiencies and mismanagement continue to plague the nation’s energy sector. These challenges cast a shadow over hopes for reducing fuel importation and stabilizing domestic supply.
Calls for Transparent Review of Rehabilitation Efforts
As Nigerians grapple with high fuel costs and inconsistent supply, the refinery’s struggles highlight the need for transparent reviews and reforms in the oil and gas sector. Many are calling for an independent audit to assess the project’s expenditures and outcomes. The repeated shutdowns underscore the urgency of addressing inefficiencies to fulfill promises of energy security for the nation.
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