NNPCL Shuts Down Operations At Port Harcourt Refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has announced that the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) will be temporarily closed for maintenance starting Saturday, May 24, 2025.

In a statement released on Saturaday, NNPCL confirmed that the refinery will be shut down for about a month to carry out scheduled safety checks and maintenance work.

Olufemi Soneye, the company’s Chief Corporate Conmmunications Officer, said the maintenance is part of efforts to ensure the refinery operates safely and efficiently in the long term.

He said, “NNPC Ltd wishes to inform the general public that the Port Harcourt Refining Company will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown.

“This scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment will commence on May 24, 2025.”

Soneye also revealed that NNPCL is coordinating with key industry regulators, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, to ensure the process is smooth and transparent.

He reassured the public that the company is committed to keeping Nigeria’s energy supply stable throughout the period.

“We are working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority to ensure the maintenance and assessment activities are carried out efficiently and transparently.

“NNPC Ltd remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering sustainable energy security for Nigeria.

“Further updates will be provided regularly through our official channels, including our website, media platforms, and public statements,” he stated.

Despite the announcement, some local fuel dealers in Eleme, where the refinery is located, have raised concerns, accusing certain officials of using the shutdown as a cover for sabotage.

But Soneye dismissed these claims, emphasizing that the refinery is still functional and that the planned work is necessary to keep it running safely.

He added that the company will share regular updates through its official website and media channels as the maintenance progresses.

“Please be informed that the refinery remains fully operational. However, we are preparing to undertake a scheduled critical safety maintenance exercise aimed at ensuring the continued safe and sustainable operation of the facility.

“This maintenance activity, which will follow global best practices, is expected to last approximately one month. To ensure uninterrupted supply during this period, we have adequate volumes of AGO, kerosene, and other products,” he said on Friday.

KanyiDaily recalls that in December 2024, Port Harcourt Refinery ceased operations barely a month after resuming production.