The Edo State Government has issued a Certificate of Occupancy to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) for its proposed refinery and petrochemical project in the state.

The certificate covers the proposed Oredo Refinery and Petrochemical Company Limited and was formally handed over to NNPC’s Executive Vice President, Downstream, Alhaji Mumuni Dagazau, during a visit to the Government House in Benin City on Friday.

The development was disclosed on Saturday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele.

Speaking during the presentation, Dagazau praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for making land available and providing the necessary documentation to facilitate the project.

He said the proposed facility would support the Federal Government’s efforts to strengthen domestic refining capacity, improve energy security and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products.

According to him, the project is also expected to create jobs, encourage technology transfer and expand opportunities for local businesses across the downstream petroleum sector.

Dagazau assured the state government that NNPC would collaborate with relevant stakeholders to ensure the project receives the support required for its successful delivery.

In his remarks, Okpebholo said providing land for the proposed facility was part of his administration’s strategy to attract investments, expand the state’s revenue base and generate employment.

He noted that the refinery and petrochemical project would strengthen Edo’s industrial and commercial activities while creating economic opportunities for residents.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s readiness to work with NNPC, expressing confidence that the investment would contribute to the state’s development.

The presentation was attended by government officials and members of the NNPC delegation, including Chief Downstream Investment Officer, Ikedichi Dick-Nwoke; Senior Communications Adviser, Adaobi Oniwinde; and Senior Business Analyst to the Executive Vice President, Downstream, Valentine Marinho.