The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has called on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to strictly adhere to the 30-day repair timeline planned for the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC).
This appeal follows NNPC’s announcement, made by Chief Corporate Communications Officer Olufemi Soneye, regarding a scheduled maintenance shutdown for the facility. Soneye revealed that the maintenance and sustainability assessment is set to commence on May 24, 2025. He assured that the company is collaborating closely with relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure efficient and transparent execution of the maintenance activities.
Billy Gillis-Harry, PETROAN’s National President, voiced concerns about the shutdown, indicating that while maintenance is expected, adherence to the timeline is crucial to mitigate disruptions in petroleum product supply. The association expressed apprehension that the 30-day schedule may be overly optimistic due to typical bottlenecks, risking further delays and heightened supply challenges.
PETROAN highlighted the potential negative impact of delays in the refinery’s rehabilitation on the economic conditions of millions of Nigerians. They stressed the necessity for the repair process to encompass the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) blending unit, emphasising its essential role in the crude oil cracking process.
Moreover, the group insisted that NNPC complete the repairs before existing stock levels diminish, preventing market monopolies and ensuring a consistent supply of petroleum products. Timely repairs are seen as vital for maintaining market competition, ultimately benefiting consumers and the economy.
PETROAN recommended that the Minister of Petroleum establish a task force of all stakeholders in the industry to oversee the repairs and provide weekly updates to the public on progress, promoting transparency and accountability. They also urged for prompt payments to contractors to avoid delays and keep the project on schedule.
In the meantime, an internal memo circulated within the refinery warned staff against engaging with external parties or the media regarding the Area 5 plant shutdown, stating that such actions violate Labour Law and could lead to severe disciplinary measures.
