The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has said that years of abandonment have made the rehabilitation of the country’s refineries extremely difficult.
The Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, explained that despite huge spending on the Warri, Port Harcourt, and Kaduna refineries, the facilities have been tough to restore to working condition after being left idle for decades. He compared the challenge to restarting a car that has been unused for years.
Ojulari made the remarks in Abuja during a meeting with executives of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN). He noted that NNPC had concluded both technical and commercial assessments of the refineries and was adopting a new model that brings in skilled refining companies to operate them sustainably.
He also said NNPC is drawing on its stake in the Dangote Refinery to maintain steady supply while the state-owned facilities undergo reforms.
According to Ojulari, since assuming leadership five months ago, his main priority has been to revive the refineries through joint ventures that will prevent political interference. He maintained that the company will not be swayed by short-term pressures, insisting that the transformation process will ultimately serve the best interest of Nigerians.
The NNPC boss also revealed that the firm is facing resistance from groups opposed to the reforms, but assured that the process will continue.
PENGASSAN President, Festus Osifo, on his part, applauded NNPC’s progress, particularly the resumption of key pipeline operations and a reduction in crude oil theft. He recommended that government allow experienced private refiners to acquire shares in the facilities, which would reduce political influence and ensure better management.
Osifo stressed that under Ojulari’s leadership, major pipelines like Forcados and the Trans-Niger Pipeline have been restored, contributing to higher national output.
Both sides agreed that while the road to refinery recovery is long and demanding, patience and consistency are essential for success.
