The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has extended an invitation to former President Olusegun Obasanjo to visit the Port Harcourt Refinery and personally verify its operational status. This gesture follows Obasanjo’s recent interview with Channels Television, where he expressed skepticism about the refinery’s functionality based on advice he claimed to have received from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).
According to the former president, SPDC had raised concerns about corruption as a major impediment to the refinery’s operations. Obasanjo further alleged that NNPCL had been providing misleading information to the public regarding the state of the facility.
In a swift and respectful response, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, addressed the claims, affirming the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability. He formally invited Obasanjo to tour the rehabilitated refineries, including the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PhRC), to assess the progress made.
“Furthermore, 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,” Soneye stated. He underscored the company’s dedication to ensuring energy security for Nigeria and emphasized the invaluable role of the former president’s wisdom and experience.
Soneye clarified that NNPCL has moved beyond routine Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) to undertake a complete overhaul of the Port Harcourt Refinery and other facilities, including the Warri and Kaduna refineries. He described the transformation as part of the company’s evolution from a government corporation to a profit-driven private entity, committed to achieving world-class operational standards.
“This process was not merely the Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) of the past but a full-scale overhaul designed to meet world-class standards,” Soneye explained. “Similarly, we are currently conducting the same comprehensive rehabilitation of the old Port Harcourt Refinery and Kaduna Refinery.”
Soneye highlighted the broader vision of NNPCL as an integrated energy company focused on sustainability and profitability. He noted that the transition to a private limited liability company has enabled NNPCL to transform from a loss-making entity to a profit-oriented global energy firm.
He added, “The new NNPC Limited is committed not only to enhancing these refineries but also to maintaining them to global standards. This will ensure their sustainable operation and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s energy security.”
Expressing respect for Obasanjo’s contributions to national development, Soneye reiterated the importance of collaboration in advancing the nation’s energy goals. “We deeply respect and hold President Obasanjo in the highest regard as a distinguished statesman who has contributed significantly to the progress of our nation,” he said. “His insights and counsel remain invaluable as we work together to build a brighter future for Nigeria.”
Responding to media speculation about NNPCL’s alleged decision to halt crude oil supply to the Dangote Refinery, Soneye dismissed the report as baseless, stating, “No need to respond to falsehood.”
The invitation to Obasanjo represents NNPCL’s commitment to fostering open dialogue and accountability while addressing concerns about its operations. The company remains steadfast in its mission to secure Nigeria’s energy future and provide tangible benefits to its citizens.
Comments