P’Harcourt Refinery Hits 180 Days of Non-Stop Operation – PETROAN

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has announced that the Port Harcourt Refinery has successfully operated for 180 consecutive days without interruption. This milestone marks a significant step in Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen local refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.

According to PETROAN, the refinery’s sustained operation underscores the government’s commitment to revitalizing the country’s refining infrastructure. The Port Harcourt Refinery, which resumed operations after years of inactivity, has been processing crude oil consistently, ensuring a steady supply of refined products to the domestic market.

Impact on Fuel Supply and Pricing

The continued operation of the refinery has contributed to stabilizing fuel supply across the country. With local refining in full swing, there has been a reduction in reliance on imported fuel, which has historically exposed Nigeria to forex volatility and supply disruptions. By refining petroleum products locally, the country is gradually reducing its exposure to international market fluctuations.

Industry stakeholders believe that the sustained performance of the Port Harcourt Refinery will help ease pressure on fuel pricing, making petroleum products more affordable in the long run. However, PETROAN cautioned that while this is a positive development, further investment and efficiency improvements are needed to maximize the refinery’s output and reduce production costs.

Future Prospects for Nigeria’s Refining Sector

The refinery’s uninterrupted six-month run is seen as a major boost for Nigeria’s refining sector, which has struggled for decades due to poor maintenance and operational inefficiencies. The federal government has continued to push for increased local refining, with the Port Harcourt Refinery’s performance serving as a benchmark for future projects.

PETROAN has called on relevant stakeholders to ensure that maintenance schedules are strictly adhered to, preventing unexpected breakdowns that could disrupt supply. Additionally, the association emphasized the need for continuous investment in refining technology to enhance efficiency and output.

With the Dangote Refinery also ramping up production and other refineries expected to resume operations, industry experts remain optimistic that Nigeria is on track to achieving self-sufficiency in petroleum refining. If the momentum is sustained, Nigerians could witness improved fuel availability and price stability in the coming months.