posted 24th May 2025
Port Harcourt Refinery Shuts Down for Maintenance Amid Controversy Over £1.2bn Repair Costs
The Port Harcourt Refinery, operated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), has been shut down for planned maintenance and a sustainability assessment starting 24 May 2025, the company announced. The closure comes just months after a contentious £1.2 billion (approximately $1.5 billion) refurbishment, funded through borrowed money under the leadership of former NNPC Group Managing Director, Abba Kyari.
The costly repairs, intended to revive the long-dormant refinery, have sparked widespread debate due to their high price tag and questions about transparency. Critics have raised concerns over the effectiveness of the investment, as the refinery’s operational status remains unstable. The latest shutdown, described by NNPC Ltd. as a routine maintenance exercise, has intensified scrutiny over the management of Nigeria’s refining infrastructure.
In a press release, NNPC Ltd. stated it is collaborating with stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure the maintenance is conducted efficiently and transparently. “NNPC Ltd. remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering sustainable energy security for Nigeria,” said Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer.
The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Some industry analysts view the maintenance as a necessary step to address underlying issues, while others question why such a significant overhaul was needed so soon after the expensive repairs. The refinery’s closure could further strain Nigeria’s domestic fuel supply, as the country continues to rely heavily on imported petroleum products.
NNPC Ltd. has promised regular updates through its official channels, including its website and media platforms, as the maintenance progresses. For now, the shutdown casts a shadow over the refinery’s future and raises broader questions about Nigeria’s energy strategy.
