Port Harcourt Refinery Confirms Scaling Down Operations for Upgrade

The Port Harcourt Refinery announces a reduction in operations to facilitate ongoing upgrades aimed at improving capacity and efficiency in fuel production.

The Port Harcourt Refining Company has clarified that, rather than being entirely stopped, its operations have been scaled down to allow for enhancements at the facility.

Moyi Maidunama, the Executive Director of Operations for Nigerian Pipeline and Storage Company Limited, revealed this information on Sunday during a guided tour of the refinery conducted by Managing Director Ibrahim Onoja.

While speaking to journalists, Maidunama admitted there was a temporary disruption in operations but clarified that the reduction was necessary to resolve technical issues and improve capacity.

He explained that the operations were not stopped but had been scaled back to accommodate necessary improvements.

“We’re coordinating the process using the trucks available today and a few loading arms for evacuation. This issue should be resolved soon.”

He assured everyone that the distribution of products was actively underway, with multiple trucks being loaded with refined goods. He added that this process would proceed without interruption.

Worlu Joel, the Terminal Manager at Port Harcourt Depot, confirmed that they have started distributing products such as Premium Motor Spirit, kerosene, and diesel.

However, he expressed concerns about the low turnout of tanker drivers.

He mentioned, “We have extra products and operational loading arms ready; however, we’ve had to plead with tanker drivers to come and transport the products.”

READ ALSO: Port Harcourt Refinery Yet to Commence Bulk Sales, NNPCL Confirms

We have already loaded over ten trucks and anticipate dispatching at least 15 before the end of the day.

Joel pointed out that the depot has 11 operational loading bays, but only three are currently in use because of their high efficiency. He mentioned that each bay is capable of loading three trucks in just 15 minutes.

He assured that if they received 100 trucks today, the evacuation could be completed in less than five hours.

Emphasizing the progress achieved at the refinery, Managing Director Ibrahim Onoja stated that the facility had received significant upgrades to enhance efficiency and reliability.

The plant is operational, and we are transporting our products by truck.

“We’ve undertaken a substantial overhaul, upgrading the majority of the equipment such as pumps, instrumentation, and cables. What we’ve achieved here marks a major enhancement of the facility,” Onoja stated.

The PHRC team reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining steady product distribution while ensuring that continuous improvements boost the refinery’s overall operations.