26th November, 2024
By Ayorinde Oluokun/Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to expedite action on the scheduled reactivation of the second Port Harcourt refinery the Warri as well as Kaduna refineries with the successful revival of the main Port Harcourt refinery on Tuesday.
The President gave the order while expressing his excitement over the successful revitalization of the Port Harcourt refinery, marked by the official commencement of petroleum product loading on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga said in a statement.
While extending his heartfelt congratulations to the NNPCL over the reactivation of the refineries, Tinubu, according to the statement, also acknowledged the pivotal role of former President Muhammadu Buhari in initiating the comprehensive rehabilitation of Nigerian refineries.
The President also expressed his gratitude to the African Export-Import Bank for its confidence in financing the reactivation of the refinery which he described as a “critical project”.
“Furthermore, President Tinubu commends the leadership of NNPC Limited’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, whose unwavering dedication and commitment were instrumental in overcoming challenges to achieve this milestone.
“With the successful revival of the Port Harcourt refinery, President Tinubu urges NNPC Limited to expedite the scheduled reactivation of both the second Port Harcourt refinery and the Warri and Kaduna refineries.
“These efforts will significantly enhance domestic production capacity alongside the contributions of privately-owned refineries and make our country a major energy hub, with the gas sector also enjoying unprecedented attention by the administration.
“The President underscores his administration’s determination to repair the nation’s refineries, aiming to eradicate the disheartening perception of Nigeria as a major crude oil producer that lacks the ability to refine its own resources for domestic consumption.
“Highlighting the values of patience, integrity, and accountability in the rebuilding of the nation’s infrastructure, President Tinubu calls upon individuals, institutions, and citizens entrusted with responsibilities to maintain focus and uphold trust in their service to the nation.
“In alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda focused on shared economic prosperity for all, the President reaffirms his administration’s commitment to achieving energy sufficiency, enhancing energy security, and boosting export capacity for Nigeria.”