Oil & Gas
…advocates sustainable measures for local refining
THE Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for resuming operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery, marking a pivotal step in Nigeria’s quest for energy independence and economic growth.
At a press conference on Wednesday, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, described the refinery’s revival as a milestone achieved through NNPCL’s resilience in surmounting challenges associated with the rehabilitation of the 60,000 barrels-per-day capacity Old Port Harcourt Refinery. Onwubiko emphasized that the successful resumption of operations is a testament to the government’s commitment to revitalizing the nation’s refining sector despite initial skepticism.
“NNPCL has demonstrated that Nigeria can leverage its resources to address energy needs locally,” Onwubiko stated. “This achievement underscores the importance of visionary leadership and diligent execution in tackling our refining challenges.”
Acknowledging the challenges encountered during the rehabilitation process, HURIWA commended the transparency demonstrated by NNPCL in addressing the delays and providing clear explanations to the public. According to the NNPCL, risks and unforeseen issues, typical of brownfield projects, posed hurdles that temporarily slowed progress. However, the association noted that the eventual resolution of these challenges and the commencement of fuel production mark a significant stride in Nigeria’s energy sector.
HURIWA also called for measures to ensure the sustainability of refinery operations across the country. The group urged the Federal Government and the NNPCL to adopt public-private partnership models, allowing private sector expertise and funding to enhance operational efficiency while safeguarding national interests. The association emphasized the importance of periodic maintenance to prevent a repeat of the refinery’s previous moribund state.
The association further stressed local capacity development, advocating for training programs to equip Nigerians with the skills necessary to manage and maintain the refineries. HURIWA called for investments in advanced technology to modernize operations and improve the efficiency of refining processes. The group also underscored the importance of transparent governance and strict regulatory oversight to maintain accountability in the management of the nation’s refining assets.
HURIWA highlighted the environmental and economic implications of a functional refinery, stating that proper management would minimize the risks associated with transporting crude oil abroad for refining and would reduce the environmental hazards of such practices. The group urged the NNPCL to continue incorporating innovative solutions, such as blending components from Indorama Petrochemicals, to ensure compliance with fuel standards and enhance the quality of locally refined products.
While commending the achievements of the NNPCL, HURIWA cautioned against complacency and called for deliberate policy actions to ensure the sustainability of the refinery and its long-term contributions to Nigeria’s energy security. The association noted that with the success of the Port Harcourt Refinery, there is a need to expedite efforts to rehabilitate other refineries and boost Nigeria’s overall refining capacity.
HURIWA also lauded the NNPCL for its plans to increase the refinery’s capacity to 90 percent in the coming months, which would significantly increase the supply of Premium Motor Spirit, diesel, kerosene, and other petroleum products. The association emphasized that this would reduce dependence on imports, stabilize the supply of fuel in the domestic market, and potentially lead to a reduction in fuel prices, benefiting millions of Nigerians.
Recognizing the challenges ahead, HURIWA called on all stakeholders, including state governments, civil society organizations, and private investors, to support efforts aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s refining sector. It stressed the need for inclusive collaboration to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of the refinery’s operations.
Onwubiko also urged Nigerians to recognize and support the progress made in the refining sector, cautioning against malicious attacks or unwarranted criticisms that could undermine these achievements. He reaffirmed that the Port Harcourt Refinery’s revival illustrates what can be accomplished when national interest is prioritized over cynicism.
“Let us avoid malicious attacks that undermine clear progress,” Onwubiko said. “The Port Harcourt Refinery is working, and it is a testament to what we can achieve when we prioritize national interest over skepticism. Together, we can build a Nigeria that thrives on the strengths of its resources and the resilience of its people.”
HURIWA highlighted the operationalization of the Dangote Refinery earlier this year alongside the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery as a turning point in Nigeria’s refining history. The association expressed optimism that these successes could transform Nigeria from a crude-exporting nation to a hub for refined petroleum products, strengthening the economy and securing a brighter future for its citizens.
HURIWA further emphasized that deliberate efforts are required to sustain and expand these achievements. “By fostering transparent governance, consistent policy actions, and robust stakeholder collaboration, Nigeria’s refining sector could emerge as a pillar of energy independence and economic resilience,” Onwubiko concluded.
A.I
Nov. 28, 2024
Tags: Emmanuel Onwubiko HURIWA Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited Port Harcourt Refinery.
