The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has invited former President Olusegun Obasanjo to tour the Port Harcourt Refinery to verify its operational status. This invitation follows Obasanjo’s comments in a recent interview with Channels Television, where he referred to advice from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC) warning that the refinery might not function effectively.
Obasanjo explained that SPDC, when approached to acquire equity in the refinery, raised concerns about corruption potentially hindering its operations. He also accused NNPCL of misinforming Nigerians about the facility’s functionality.
In response, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, extended a respectful invitation to the former president to assess the refinery in person. Soneye highlighted the company’s dedication to transparency and accountability, stating:
“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.”
He urged Obasanjo to support the company’s efforts to secure Nigeria’s energy needs. “We invite our esteemed former president to join us in this effort as we continue to deliver energy security for our nation and provide tangible benefits to Nigerians,” Soneye said. He added: “His wisdom and experience are invaluable, and we assure him that his advice will always be welcomed and appreciated.”
Soneye detailed that NNPCL’s approach to the Port Harcourt Refinery went beyond routine maintenance. Instead, the company undertook a complete overhaul to ensure the refinery meets international standards.
“As part of this transformation, NNPC Limited has gone beyond oil and gas to become an integrated energy company,” he said. “One of our notable achievements is the complete rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PhRC) and Warri Refinery. This process was not merely the Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) of the past but a full-scale overhaul designed to meet world-class standards. Similarly, we are currently conducting the same comprehensive rehabilitation of the old Port Harcourt Refinery and Kaduna Refinery.”
He emphasized that NNPCL has evolved from a government-run corporation to a private entity with limited liability, which has enabled it to shift from a loss-making organization to a profit-driven international energy firm.
“The new NNPC Limited is committed not only to enhancing these refineries but also to maintaining them to global standards,” he explained. “We will ensure their sustainable operation and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s energy security.”
Soneye also addressed Obasanjo’s recent remarks, explaining the significant transformations within the NNPCL:
“The NNPC has undergone a transformative journey, evolving from a government corporation into a private entity—NNPC Limited. This transition has marked a significant shift from being a loss-making organization to a profit-oriented global energy company.”
He acknowledged Obasanjo’s contributions to the nation, saying: “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 has every right to share his perspectives on national issues, and we value his insights and counsel.”
Soneye expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s leadership and commitment to Nigeria’s development, stating: “We remain grateful for his leadership and enduring commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for our great nation.”
When asked about reports that NNPCL would stop supplying crude oil to the Dangote Refinery, Soneye dismissed the claim as baseless, saying, “No need to respond to falsehood.”
Through this invitation, NNPCL aims to reaffirm its progress and commitment to improving Nigeria’s energy sector while maintaining respect for Obasanjo’s perspectives and legacy.
