From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has commended President Bola Tinubu for reviving the Port Harcourt refinery.
NCSCN Executive Director Blessing Akinlosotu said in a statement that the resumption of operations at PHRC is a landmark achievement, poised to yield far-reaching benefits for Nigeria’s economy and energy security.
He said that by re-streaming the refinery, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPC Ltd) had fulfilled its promise, with the first loading of petroleum products from the refinery after years of unsuccessful attempts.
“The resumption of operations at PHRC is a landmark achievement, poised to yield far-reaching benefits for Nigeria’s economy and energy security. By re-streaming the refinery, NNPC Ltd has fulfilled its promise, with the first loading of petroleum products from the refinery after years of unsuccessful attempts.
“This feat heralds a new era in Nigeria’s energy sector, marking a giant stride towards self-sufficiency in petroleum production and a substantial reduction in reliance on foreign imports.
“The Port Harcourt Refinery’s impressive operational capacity of 70% is a testament to the tireless efforts and unwavering dedication of the NNPC Ltd team, expertly led by Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) Mallam Mele Kyari. With ambitious plans to ramp up to 90% capacity in the near future, this achievement represents a critical step towards stabilising the availability of petroleum products in Nigeria,” he said.
He added that critics should ensure that their criticisms are factual, constructive, and geared towards fostering positive change. “It is essential to acknowledge that disparaging our nation is counterproductive and benefits no one. Let us all work together to promote a culture of optimism, hope, and collective progress.”