Association Asks FG To Show Interest In P/Harcourt Refinery Maintenance

Stakeholders under the aegis of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) have asked the federal government to be keenly involved in the fresh maintenance plan of the Port Harcourt Refinery in Rivers State.

Their appeal came on the heels of the shutdown of the refinery for scheduled maintenance barely six months it was reopened.

They warned against disruptions in fuel supply and urged the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) to adhere strictly to its promised 30-day repair timeline.

The NNPCL announced the temporary closure of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) effective yesterday, citing the need for planned maintenance and a sustainability assessment to enhance the facility’s efficiency and long-term viability. The company stated that it is working closely with the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and other stakeholders to ensure the process is conducted efficiently and transparently.

However, PETROAN voiced apprehension that the repair schedule may not be realistic, given historical bottlenecks and delays in refinery projects. PETROAN’s national president, Billy Gillis-Harry, emphasised that any extension beyond the 30-day timeline could worsen the existing supply challenges and deepen economic hardship for millions of Nigerians.

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PETROAN’s key demands are as follows: inclusion of PMS Blending Unit: PETROAN insists the repair must include the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) blending unit, warning that without this, the crude oil cracking process would be ineffective.

The association also urged the NNPCL to complete repairs before existing fuel stocks are depleted, to prevent market monopolisation and ensure stable supply.

PETROAN warned that delays could allow monopolistic practices to emerge, harming both consumers and the broader economy.

The group recommends the Minister of Petroleum establish a task force comprising all industry stakeholders to monitor the 30-day repair.

PETROAN calls for weekly updates to Nigerians on repair progress, promoting transparency and accountability.

Prompt Contractor Payments: The association urges NNPCL to ensure timely payments to contractors to avoid unnecessary delays.

The shutdown comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the $1.5 billion previously allocated for the refinery’s rehabilitation, with industry observers urging the new NNPCL leadership to demonstrate accountability and deliver on promised reforms.

NNPCL has reaffirmed its commitment to energy security and promised to provide regular updates through its official channels. The company maintains that the maintenance exercise is essential for the refinery’s optimal performance and long-term sustainability.