The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has confirmed plans to shut down operations at the Port Harcourt Refining Company for a month, beginning Saturday, May 24, 2025.
In a statement released on Saturday, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, described the move as a “scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment” aimed at enhancing the safe and efficient operation of the facility.
“This planned maintenance will commence on May 24, 2025. We are working closely with all relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, to ensure the process is carried out efficiently and transparently,” Soneye stated.
The announcement follows earlier reports by Saturday PUNCH hinting at the imminent shutdown.
Despite concerns raised by local fuel retailers in Eleme — the host community of the refinery — who alleged sabotage, NNPC has firmly dismissed the claims.
“The refinery remains fully operational at this time. The upcoming shutdown is purely for critical safety maintenance and follows global best practices. It is necessary for the long-term sustainability of the facility,” Soneye clarified.
He also assured the public of sufficient fuel supply during the maintenance period. “We have adequate volumes of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), kerosene, and other refined products to ensure uninterrupted supply throughout the duration of the shutdown,” he added.
NNPC reiterated its commitment to ensuring energy security and promised regular updates through its official communication channels.
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