President Bola Tinubu has praised the reopening of the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), calling it a major success for 2024.
This announcement was made in a statement released on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy.
Tinubu highlighted that this achievement reinforces Nigerians’ faith in his administration’s dedication to revitalizing the energy sector and promoting economic progress.
The Warri Refinery resumed operations today, just weeks after the Port Harcourt Refinery, with a capacity of 60,000 barrels per day (bpd), was also brought back online in November. This represents a significant advancement in the government’s ongoing mission to restore Nigeria’s refining capabilities and lessen reliance on imported petroleum products.
The President made clear that the revival of WRPC, after years of dormancy, reflects his administration’s commitment to establishing Nigeria as a center for downstream industrial activities in Africa. The refinery, which has a capacity of 125,000 bpd, is currently functioning at 60%, producing vital products like Straight Run Kerosene (SRK), Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and both heavy and light naphtha.
Acknowledging the foundation laid by the previous administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, Tinubu pointed out that contracts had been awarded under the All Progressives Congress (APC) government for the full rehabilitation of Nigeria’s four state-owned refineries. He also commended the current leadership of NNPCL, led by Group Chief Executive Officer Mele Kyari, for bringing these plans to fruition.
The President reiterated his administration’s comprehensive strategy to improve energy efficiency and security, aiming to position Nigeria as a global energy provider. He expressed his appreciation for Kyari and the NNPCL team’s hard work in restoring Nigeria’s refining capacity and enhancing its status as a leading oil-producing nation.
“The reopening of the Warri Refinery today fills me and Nigerians with joy. This development will bolster the hope and confidence of our people for a brighter future that we have promised. It is a remarkable way to conclude the year, especially following the earlier success with the Port Harcourt Refinery. I am also pleased that NNPC Limited is carrying out my directive to ensure all four refineries are restored to optimal functioning,” President Tinubu stated.
