JUST-IN: NNPCL Challenges Obasanjo to Tour of Port Harcourt Refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has formally invited former President Olusegun Obasanjo to tour the Port Harcourt Refinery, following his recent remarks questioning the facility’s rehabilitation and functionality.

Obasanjo had recently alleged that the NNPC was misleading the Nigerian public by claiming that its refineries were operational. He also cited concerns raised by Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) when approached to acquire equity in the refinery. Shell reportedly expressed doubts about the refinery’s viability due to corruption and maintenance issues, suggesting that it would not operate effectively under the current conditions.

In response, NNPCL issued a statement on Thursday, January 2, inviting Obasanjo to visit the refinery and see the progress made in its rehabilitation. Spokesperson Olufemi Soneye said, “We extend an open invitation to President Obasanjo for a tour of the rehabilitated refineries to witness firsthand the progress made under the new NNPC Limited.”

The NNPCL emphasized its transformation into an integrated energy company and reiterated its commitment to providing energy security and tangible benefits to Nigerians. “One of our notable achievements is the complete rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PhRC) and Warri Refinery,” Soneye added.

Acknowledging Obasanjo’s vast experience, NNPCL expressed its respect for his contributions to the nation’s energy sector and invited him to support the ongoing efforts to enhance Nigeria’s energy security. “We invite our esteemed former president to join us in this effort as we continue to deliver energy security for our nation and provide tangible benefits to Nigerians,” the statement concluded.

The invitation comes amid growing scrutiny of NNPCL’s operations and broader debates regarding transparency in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.