The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited says the Port Harcourt refinery has commenced the loading of petroleum products into trucks.
In a statement on Tuesday by Femi Soneye, NNPC’s spokesperson, the national oil company said the pledge to re-stream the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) has been fulfilled.
The NNPC said the development signifies the commencement of crude oil processing from the plant and the delivery of petroleum products into the market.
“On Tuesday, trucks began loading petroleum products which include Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) or petrol, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) or diesel and Household Kerosene (HHK) or Kerosene, while other product slates will be dispatched as well,” the statement reads.
Speaking at a ceremony to mark the refinery’s feat in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Mele Kyari, group chief executive officer (GCEO) of NNPC, described the truck-loading activity as a significant historical achievement for Nigeria.
He said the commencement of production at the refinery signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for the country.
The NNPC GCEO thanked President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast support and understanding towards the rehabilitation project and for his perseverance in ensuring energy security for the country.
Kyari expressed appreciation to the NNPC board of directors and the entire staff for their support and commitment, which, he said, culminated in the “streaming” of the refinery.
He also commended the contractors for “doing a great job” in ensuring that the refinery is delivered despite all challenges.
Kyari further thanked Nigerians for their patience and for the legitimate expectations of the company to deliver on the other refineries.
In his remarks, Farouk Ahmed, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) congratulated the NNPC on the milestone.
He assured of his agency’s continued support towards the completion of rehabilitation work at other refineries.
Earlier today, the NNPC said the Port Harcourt refinery officially commenced crude oil processing.