The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited NNPCL has initiated the process of supplying crude oil for the test-running of the Port Harcourt Refining Company Limited, the NNPCL officials has confirmed.
The Oil marketers while confirming the development, stated that the plant would supply refined Premium Motor Spirit, popularly called petrol, Automotive Gas Oil, otherwise known as diesel, as well as other products to 12 states including Abia, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Delta, among others.
The NNPCL also stated that the test-running of the plant would be completed shortly, averring that commercial production of refined products would also begin shortly.
The cost of refined products is expected to reduce once the Port Harcourt and Dangote refineries start pumping out products.
The Nigerian Government pn December 21, 2023, announced the mechanical completion of rehabilitation work on the Area-5 Plant of the Port Harcourt Refining Company in Rivers State.
The Federal Government revealed that the first phase of the plant had been completed, noting that the facility would start refining 60,000 barrels of crude oil daily after the Christmas break.
NNPCL Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, said crude oil was being supplied to the Port-Harcourt facility.
Soneye said the refinery was being test-run, as this was in line with international best practice, and assured Nigerians that the plant would commence commercial production of refined products production shortly
“We’ve successfully completed the mechanical phase of the PH refinery Area 5 plant, installing all vital components. Licensor inspection has been done and catalysts delivered.
“Now, industry-based testing remains, focusing on leaks, air, line blowing, flushing, drying, steam out, calibration, plant inerting, and then hydrocarbon (crude oil) introduction.
“While we share the optimism, adherence to global best practices is crucial. Testing will conclude shortly, ensuring the refinery’s efficient operation. Production should commence shortly,” he stated.
