The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has again missed its deadline to commence fuel production at the Port Harcourt refinery, despite six previous postponements as of August 2024. After the latest delay, NNPC Chief Financial Officer Umar Ajiya had promised in August that the refinery would be operational by September, but no update has been given as September ended.

Contractor Maire Tecnimont SpA, overseeing the refinery’s rehabilitation, stated it would provide a project update by October 2, in response to inquiries from Senior Advocate Femi Falana. The company, through a law firm, noted, “Our client is considering your letters and they intend to get back to you on or before 2 October 2024.”

Despite multiple assurances from NNPC’s leadership, including Group CEO Mele Kyari, that the refinery would begin operations, these promises have yet to materialize. Kyari had previously declared, “I can confirm to you, Mr Chairman, that by the end of the year, this country will be a net exporter of petroleum products.” However, the Port Harcourt refinery remains non-operational, contributing to Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel.

The refinery, which has a capacity of 210,000 barrels per day, has been under rehabilitation since a $1.5bn loan was acquired in 2021, amid criticism from figures like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Nigerians continue to await the refinery’s revival, hoping it will reduce fuel importation and lower petrol prices.