NNPC Limited calls for private operators to handle operations of Port-Harcourt refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has called for private companies to handle the operation and maintenance of its Port Harcourt refinery in Rivers State.

The NNPC Limited disclosed this on Monday in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

The Federal government had in 2023, resumed rehabilitation of three of its four refineries – Warri, Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries.

The country’s Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri however announced the “mechanical completion” and the “flare start-off” of the Port Harcourt refinery in December 2023.

The NNPC Ltd, in the post, said it is now looking for “reputable and credible” companies to operate and maintain the refinery.

This, they said, is intended “to ensure reliability and sustainability towards meeting the nation’s fuel supply and energy security obligations.”

The NNPC said for intending bidders to be considered for engagement, they must meet some requirements which are published on its website.

The deadline for submission of applications by bidders is 26 February, according to the NNPC.

Nigeria’s four refineries have been moribund for many years now despite Turn-Around-Maintenance efforts. This has resulted in the importation of petroleum products which has continued to pose severe economic challenges to the country.