NNPC CEO Mele Kyari defends blending at the Port Harcourt refinery, stating it’s a standard refining process ensuring product quality. He invites skeptics to verify the refinery's operational status and highlights the government’s efforts to revitalize the oil and gas sector, boost investments, and create job opportunities.
Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited, has clarified that blending petroleum products at the Port Harcourt refinery is a standard and necessary practice. Speaking at the commissioning of the NUPENG Towers in Lagos, Kyari dismissed criticisms regarding the refinery’s operations, emphasizing that blending ensures fuel meets Nigeria’s specifications and safeguards vehicle performance.
Kyari explained that off-specification products could damage vehicles without blending. He stated, "Every refinery blends to meet specific regional or national standards. What is acceptable in one country may not meet the criteria in another."
The Port Harcourt refinery, which resumed crude oil processing on November 26 after years of inactivity, has begun producing straight-run petrol (naphtha). This product is blended into 1.4 million liters of petrol daily. Additionally, the refinery has commenced loading petroleum products for distribution by trucks.
Addressing skeptics, Kyari invited critics, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana, to visit the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries to verify their operational status.
Kyari praised President Bola Tinubu’s policies in the oil and gas sector, citing increased investments and job creation. He also lauded NUPENG for its collaborative efforts, urging continued dialogue between the union, NNPC, and the federal government.
Kyari’s remarks highlight the importance of blending in refining operations while reaffirming the government's commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
