Nigeria Port Harcourt Refinery Commences Test-Run, Awaits Commercial Production

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has commenced the supply of crude oil for the test-running phase of the Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited, marking a significant step in the nation's energy landscape. Oil marketers confirm that the refinery is expected to supply refined products, including petrol and diesel, to 12 states, such as Abia, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Delta. The ongoing test-running is nearing completion, and the NNPCL assures that commercial production of refined products will commence shortly.

The Port Harcourt Refinery's rehabilitation, announced by the Federal Government in December 2023, reached a milestone with the completion of the first phase, set to refine 60,000 barrels of crude oil daily. The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, expressed satisfaction with the progress, and NNPCL's Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, confirmed that crude oil supply is ongoing for the testing phase.

Oil marketers and experts anticipate a reduction in the cost of refined products with the operationalization of the Port Harcourt and Dangote refineries, though a massive price crash is not expected immediately. The completion of the second phase of the Port Harcourt Refinery is set for the fourth quarter of 2024, promising increased refining capacity.

While Nigerians are hopeful for a drop in refined product prices, organizations like the Nigeria Labour Congress express concerns over unfulfilled government promises and criticize economic policies impacting workers. The NLC emphasizes the need for responsible debt activities to secure the nation's financial future. As the refineries move toward production, the nation anticipates positive impacts on the energy sector and economic landscape.