President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday congratulated the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for reviving the Port Harcourt refinery, from where loading of petroleum products has resumed.
The President acknowledged the pivotal role of former President Muhammadu Buhari in initiating the comprehensive rehabilitation of all the refineries and thanked the African Export-Import Bank for its confidence in financing the project.
Tinubu also hailed NNPC Limited’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, saying that his unwavering dedication and commitment were instrumental in overcoming challenges to achieve the resuscitation of the refinery.
”With the successful revival of the Port Harcourt refinery, President Tinubu urges NNPC Limited to expedite the scheduled reactivation of both the second Port Harcourt refinery and the Warri and Kaduna refineries.
“These efforts will significantly enhance domestic production capacity alongside the contributions of privately-owned refineries and make our country a major energy hub, with the gas sector also enjoying unprecedented attention by the administration.
“The President underscores his administration’s determination to repair the nation’s refineries, aiming to eradicate the disheartening perception of Nigeria as a major crude oil producer that lacks the ability to refine its own resources for domestic consumption.
“Highlighting the values of patience, integrity, and accountability in the rebuilding of the nation’s infrastructure, President Tinubu calls upon individuals, institutions, and citizens entrusted with responsibilities to maintain focus and uphold trust in their service to the nation.
“In alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda focused on shared economic prosperity for all, the President reaffirms his administration’s commitment to achieving energy sufficiency, enhancing energy security, and boosting export capacity for Nigeria”, said Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) in a statement issued on Tuesday.
Speaking during a brief ceremony to mark the commencement of products loading at the Refinery on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, Kyari described the development as a monumental achievement for Nigeria which signifies a new era of energy independence and economic growth for the country.
The GCEO particularly thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support and understanding towards the rehabilitation project and for his persistence to ensure energy security for the country.
Kyari also expressed deep appreciation to the NNPC Ltd Board of Directors and the entire staff for their support and commitment, which crystallized into the streaming of the refinery.
He also commended the contractors for doing a great job in ensuring that the refinery is delivered despite all challenges.
The GCEO further thanked Nigerians for their patience and for the legitimate expectations on the company to deliver on the other refineries.
