The umbrella body of Nigerian students worldwide, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has lauded the management of the
Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), led by Malam Mele Kyari, for commencement of work at the Port Harcourt Refinery.
Recall the Port Harcourt refinery was initially shut down in 2019 with the combined processing capacity of Nigeria’s four refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna standing at 445,000 barrels per day (bpd). However, the refineries were rendered inoperative due to maintenance concerns.
NANS Senate President, Akinteye Babatunde expressed delight at the development and commended Malam Mele Kyari, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPCL and his team for bringing renewed hope to Nigerians.
He said, “I am delighted to commend the NNPC boss, Mallam Mele Kyari for the commencement of work at the Port Harcourt refinery.
“This milestone marks a significant step towards revitalizing our nation’s oil and gas sector and boosting our economy. The refurbishment and commencement of work at the refinery will not only create job opportunities but also contribute to reducing reliance on imported petroleum products.
“Furthermore, I strongly believe this development showcases the commitment of the NNPCL towards ensuring energy security and self-sufficiency for our great nation. Nigeria has always been a force to reckon with, amidst her oil-producing counterparts. However, recent activities and events in the oil and gas sector, which include the increment in petroleum products prices have reduced the confidence of Nigerians in the process.
“It is, therefore, a testament to the dedication and hard work of all those involved in making this project a reality, as they took it upon themselves as a challenge, as tasked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in a bid to alleviate the suffering of the masses and increasing the oil revenues, the country generates.”
NANS urged the NNPC boss and his team to continue prioritizing the revitalization, modernization and expansion of the refineries, saying it will not only enhance Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure but also foster technological advancements and innovation in the sector.
Comrade Akinteye urged all well-meaning Nigerians to embrace this positive development and support the efforts of the NNPCL in transforming Nigeria’s Oil landscape.