The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has extended an invitation to former President Olusegun Obasanjo to visit the rehabilitated Port Harcourt Refinery in Rivers State.
The move aims to allow Obasanjo to verify the facility’s operational status, following his recent remarks questioning its capacity during an interview with Channels Television.
In a statement on Thursday, NNPCL highlighted its achievements and underscored the importance of Obasanjo’s insights.
“We extend an invitation to our esteemed former president to join us in this historic journey. His wisdom and experience are invaluable, and we deeply appreciate his insights and guidance, which will always be welcomed and cherished,” the statement read.
NNPCL also encouraged Obasanjo to witness the ongoing progress at the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries, which have undergone significant upgrades.
Refinery Overhaul
Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that the efforts went beyond routine maintenance, emphasizing that the refinery underwent a complete overhaul to meet global standards.
“This is not the typical Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) of the past but a comprehensive overhaul designed to meet world-class standards,” Soneye explained.
He added that similar upgrades are underway at the old Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries to ensure sustainable operations and global competitiveness.
Strategic Leadership and National Progress
Soneye credited the progress to the leadership of NNPCL’s board, led by Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s transformative energy policies.
“These efforts have not only strengthened Nigeria’s energy security but have also positioned NNPC Limited as a leader on the global energy stage,” Soneye stated.
NNPCL expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s enduring contributions to Nigeria’s development and reaffirmed its commitment to building a sustainable and prosperous future for the nation.
