Nigerians Skeptical as Government Promises Port Harcourt Refinery Operational in Two Weeks

Nigerians have expressed skepticism over the recent announcement by Mele Kyari, Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), that the Port Harcourt Refinery would become operational within two weeks.

Kyari made the revelation during an interactive session with the Senate, emphasizing that the delivery date for the Port Harcourt and other refineries remains a priority for the government.

According to NNPCL spokesperson Olufemi Soneye, Kyari stated, “We will make sure that promises that we made about the rehabilitation of these refineries are kept. We completed the mechanical completion of PHRC in December. Now, we have crude oil already stocked in it. It is currently undergoing regulatory compliance tests before we re-stream it. I assure you that this refinery will start in the next two weeks.”

Kyari also provided updates on the Warri and Kaduna refineries, indicating progress in their rehabilitation processes.

Despite the assurances from the government, many Nigerians remain unconvinced. Previous promises of refinery rehabilitation and operation have failed to materialize, leading to widespread skepticism among the populace.

Alhaji Yerima Shettima, president of Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), urged cautious optimism while acknowledging the government’s track record of unfulfilled promises. He emphasized the importance of honesty and sincerity from the government to regain public trust.

However, Dr. Pogu Bitrus, president of the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), expressed doubts about the government’s intentions, calling for transparency and truthfulness in communications regarding the refinery’s status.

Similarly, legal practitioner IK Onodi questioned the credibility of the two-week timeline, citing past failures to meet deadlines in refinery operations. He advocated for tangible actions over mere promises.

Anthony Obidulu, an industrialist, went further to express frustration with the political games surrounding the refinery, suggesting that it be sold off due to its history of unfulfilled promises and political manipulation.

As Nigerians await further developments, skepticism prevails, with many calling for concrete actions to back up the government’s promises regarding the Port Harcourt Refinery. The Senate Ad-hoc Committee is expected to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the refineries to gauge progress accurately.