The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reaffirmed its commitment to ending decades-long fuel importation by the end of 2024, according to Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari. Kyari made this declaration during the unveiling of two books authored by former Group Executive Director of the National Oil Company, Professor Billy Okoye.
In his statement, Kyari emphasized the company’s new trajectory towards providing the nation with adequate fuel supply, highlighting ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the country’s four refineries. He assured that these refineries would commence production soon, with the Port Harcourt refinery expected to come online within the next two weeks and the Kaduna refinery scheduled to begin production by December 2024.
Meanwhile, the Senate, through its ad hoc committee chaired by Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, reviewed allegations of fraud in the turnaround maintenance of the refineries undertaken by NNPCL. Ubah clarified that no fraudulent practices had been discovered in the exercise, based on available documents.
During Kyari’s appearance before the committee, he provided updates on the progress of refinery maintenance, stating that mechanical work had been completed at the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries. He further assured that the Kaduna refinery’s rehabilitation was ongoing and projected for completion by December 2024.
Additionally, Senator Mpigi Barnada urged NNPCL to address security challenges in the Niger Delta region to ensure smooth operations once the refineries resume production.
Overall, these developments underscore NNPC’s efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in fuel production and enhance the nation’s energy security while addressing concerns related to refinery maintenance and operational integrity.
