The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has formally invited former President Olusegun Obasanjo to visit the Port Harcourt Refinery to personally assess its operational status.
This invitation comes after Obasanjo’s recent appearance on Channels Television, where he referenced advice from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), which raised doubts about the refinery’s ability to function effectively.
Obasanjo claimed that SPDC, which had been approached for equity in the refinery, highlighted concerns over corruption hindering its operations.
He also accused NNPCL of providing misleading information to the public about the refinery’s functionality.
In response to these statements, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, extended an invitation to the former president to tour the facility.
Soneye emphasized the company’s dedication to transparency and accountability in its operations.
“We invite President Obasanjo to visit the rehabilitated refineries and see firsthand the progress we’ve made under the new NNPC Limited,” Soneye said.
He further encouraged Obasanjo to collaborate with NNPCL in ensuring the nation’s energy security.
“We invite our esteemed former president to join us in this effort as we continue to deliver energy security for our nation and provide tangible benefits to Nigerians. His wisdom and experience are invaluable, and we assure him that his advice will always be welcomed and appreciated,” Soneye added.
Soneye clarified that NNPCL had not only conducted turnaround maintenance on the refinery but had also undertaken a complete overhaul.
“As part of this transformation, NNPC Limited has gone beyond oil and gas to become an integrated energy company. One of our significant accomplishments is the full rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PhRC) and the Warri Refinery,” he said.
He pointed out that the current rehabilitation was not limited to a simple turnaround maintenance but was a comprehensive transformation aimed at meeting international standards. Soneye also mentioned ongoing efforts to rehabilitate the Port Harcourt and Kaduna refineries.
NNPCL has transitioned from a government corporation to a private, limited-liability entity, now focused on profitability and global energy initiatives.
“Our focus is not only to enhance these refineries but also to maintain them to global standards,” Soneye affirmed. “We are committed to ensuring their sustainable operation and playing a key role in Nigeria’s energy security.”
Soneye also addressed Obasanjo’s remarks on the state of NNPCL, emphasizing the company’s transformation.
“The NNPC has evolved into NNPC Limited, marking a major shift from a loss-making entity to a profit-driven, international energy company,” he stated.
He concluded by acknowledging Obasanjo’s role as a distinguished statesman.
“We have deep respect for President Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria and value his insights,” he said. “Together, we can continue to work towards building a brighter future for our nation.”
Soneye was also asked to comment on media reports alleging that NNPCL would cease crude oil supply to Dangote Refinery. He responded succinctly: “There’s no need to respond to falsehood.”
