The Nigerian National Petroleum Commission (NNPC) has cited unforeseen challenges as the reason for the delayed completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery, which missed its September 2024 deadline.

NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, explained on Monday that the project, being a complex brownfield rehabilitation, encountered risks during commissioning. While mechanical completion was achieved months ago, unforeseen issues stalled progress. “These issues have since been effectively resolved, and commissioning activities have resumed,” Soneye stated, adding that efforts continue around the clock to ensure completion.

However, the NNPC refrained from providing a new timeline, marking its seventh missed deadline for the refinery’s operation since December 2023.

The refinery, owned by the Federal Government and managed by NNPC, has been non-operational for years. Nigerians have high hopes that refining crude domestically will reduce fuel costs. Despite securing a $1.5 billion loan for rehabilitation in 2021, progress remains slow, with the contractor, Maire Tecnimont SPA, declining to disclose a completion date, citing non-obligation under the Freedom of Information Act.

NNPC had previously promised production by early August 2024, with plans to refine 60,000 barrels daily. However, the project’s repeated delays have left Nigerians skeptical about its delivery, as the refinery remains inactive with the year nearing its end.