Captain of IndustryJanuary 3, 2025

NNPC invites Obasanjo to inspect Port Harcourt, Warri refineries

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has invited former President Olusegun Obasanjo to tour the rehabilitated Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.

The invitation to Obasanjo followed the ex-president’s skepticism about the viability of the $2 billion invested in the refineries.

Obasanjo had on a Channels Television interview on Thursday said: “I was told not too long ago that since that time, more than $2 billion have been squandered on the refinery, and they still will not work.

“If anyone tells you now that it is working, why are they still with Aliko (Dangote)?

“Aliko will not only make his refinery work, but also make it deliver.”

But reacting, NNPCL in a statement by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said: “We hold President Olusegun Obasanjo in the highest regard as a statesman who has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development. His observations are deeply respected.

“However, we wish to emphasize that NNPC has undergone a remarkable transformation.

“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.

“Additionally, we warmly invite President Obasanjo to tour the rehabilitated refineries and witness firsthand the progress made under the leadership of NNPC Limited.

“We remain grateful for his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s development and are committed to building a brighter, more prosperous future for our nation.

“This is not the typical Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) of the past but a comprehensive overhaul designed to meet world-class standards.

“Similar efforts are underway at the old Port Harcourt Refinery and Kaduna Refinery, ensuring these facilities are enhanced and maintained to global standards for sustainable operation.

“This progress has been driven by the visionary leadership of the NNPC Limited board and the management team led by GCEO Mele Kyari, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s transformative policies in the energy sector.

“Together, they have achieved unprecedented milestones, setting NNPC Limited on a path to redefine energy security for Nigeria while positioning the company as a leader on the global energy stage.”