The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has unveiled a documentary series chronicling the revival of the Port Harcourt Refinery, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s energy sector. Titled Back in Action: The Rebirth of the Port Harcourt Refinery, the series showcases the extensive efforts and strategic investments that have transformed the once-dormant refinery into a functional facility, contributing to the country’s push for energy independence and sustainability.
A Legacy Restored
Built in 1965, the Port Harcourt Refinery, Nigeria’s first, has remained largely inactive for decades due to infrastructural decay and operational challenges. The refinery, which once refined 60,000 barrels per day, suffered setbacks, including a major fire in 1991 that damaged its crude processing unit. Over time, Nigeria’s refining capacity dwindled, leaving the country heavily dependent on imported petroleum products.
Recognising the urgency of restoring domestic refining capacity, NNPC Limited initiated the Port Harcourt Refinery Rehabilitation Project in 2019. The goal was not just to refurbish the refinery but to ensure it could operate optimally for years to come.
Strategic Investment and Revamp
The NNPC’s refinery rehabilitation programme extends beyond Port Harcourt, targeting the revitalisation of all three of its key refineries:
- Port Harcourt Refinery (210,000 barrels per day capacity)
- Warri Refinery (125,000 barrels per day capacity)
- Kaduna Refinery (110,000 barrels per day capacity)
With a total refining capacity of 445,000 barrels per day, these refineries are crucial to Nigeria’s quest for energy security. However, for years, they remained inactive, leading to increased fuel imports and foreign exchange burdens.
In 2020, NNPC Limited shifted its strategy by adopting Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) tendering for Port Harcourt’s full rehabilitation while implementing quick-fix solutions for the Warri and Kaduna refineries. The rehabilitation contract was awarded to Tecnimont in April 2021, marking the beginning of a comprehensive overhaul.
Overcoming Challenges
Reviving the Port Harcourt Refinery was no easy feat. The extensive repairs included:
- Integrity checks to assess and replace critical components
- Overhauling electrical systems, transformers, switchgear, and control panels
- Upgrading rotating equipment, pumps, and compressors
- Refurbishing static equipment such as tanks, heater columns, and pipelines
Despite numerous challenges, including regulatory approvals and technical complexities, the refinery is now operational at 80% capacity. It currently produces straight-run gasoline (used for PMS blending), kerosene, light and heavy gas oil (for diesel blending), and industrial heating fuel.
The Human Story
Beyond the technical upgrades, the refinery’s revival has rekindled pride among engineers and workers who have long been part of its history. Veterans like Chief Joseph and Elder King Albert Okan recall the refinery’s golden years and express optimism about its renewed operations.
“I was employed in 1971, and we took great pride in ensuring the refinery functioned optimally,” Chief Joseph reminisced. “Though operations slowed over the years, seeing it back to life is a dream come true.”
Future Prospects
NNPC Limited’s Managing Director, Ibrahim Onoja, highlighted that the real game-changer will be the completion of the New Port Harcourt Refinery, which boasts a refining capacity of 150,000 barrels per day. Once operational, it will significantly boost Nigeria’s petroleum product supply, reducing import dependence and enhancing economic stability.
Meanwhile, the newly revived Old Port Harcourt Refinery serves as a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to achieving energy self-sufficiency. With the documentary series shedding light on this historic feat, the NNPC aims to inspire confidence in the nation’s ability to restore and sustain its vital energy infrastructure.
