In a development, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) confirmed that the long-awaited mechanical completion of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company is anticipated in the first quarter of 2024.
The refinery, an integral part of Nigeria’s oil infrastructure, has been under rehabilitation, impacting its production capabilities.
Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye, affirmed the completion target, stating, “Warri should be done by Q1 (first quarter) 2024.” This confirmation comes amidst ongoing efforts by the federal government to revitalize the nation’s petroleum sector.
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Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Heineken Lokpobiri, emphasized the massive scale of the rehabilitation exercises at both the Warri and Port Harcourt refineries.
He expressed optimism about their imminent operational status, comparing the situation to the Dangote refinery, commissioned by the Buhari administration.
However, while the Port Harcourt Refining Company’s mechanical completion was celebrated on December 21, 2023, the facility is yet to commence refining activities as announced.
NNPCL’s spokesperson, Soneye, assured that finishing touches were being applied, emphasizing adherence to global best practices in preparation for efficient operation.
The national focus on refinery rehabilitation aligns with the broader vision of strengthening Nigeria’s economic survival. The Warri refinery, with a capacity to refine 125,000 barrels of crude oil per day, plays a crucial role in supplying petroleum products to southern and south-western Nigeria.
As the first quarter progresses, the nation anticipates the successful reactivation of the Warri refinery, contributing to the overall goal of enhancing domestic refining capacities and reducing dependence on imported petroleum products. The completion of this project marks a pivotal step towards achieving self-sufficiency in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.