NNPC Announces One-Month Maintenance Shutdown of Port Harcourt Refinery

In a move aimed at enhancing operational safety and sustainability, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has confirmed the temporary closure of the Port Harcourt Refining Company for maintenance.

The shutdown is scheduled to begin on Saturday, May 24, 2025, and will last for about a month.

The announcement was made public by Olufemi Soneye, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, who stated, “NNPC Ltd wishes to inform the general public that the Port Harcourt Refining Company will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown. This scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment will commence on May 24, 2025.”

NNPC is working in close collaboration with key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, to carry out the maintenance transparently and efficiently. Soneye assured that the refinery remains operational as preparations for the shutdown are underway.

The decision to shut down the refinery has met resistance from indigenous fuel retailers in Eleme, who have alleged sabotage by some officials. However, the NNPC spokesman refuted these claims, emphasizing the importance of the maintenance for the refinery’s safe operation.

To prevent fuel shortages during the shutdown, NNPC has secured sufficient supplies of AGO, kerosene, and other petroleum products. “This maintenance activity, which will follow global best practices, is expected to last approximately one month. To ensure uninterrupted supply during this period, we have adequate volumes of AGO, kerosene, and other products,” Soneye confirmed.

NNPC reiterated its dedication to ensuring sustainable energy security for Nigeria and promised ongoing communication with the public through its official media channels.