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The Nigerian National Petroleum Commission (NNPC) has broken its silence on the delayed completion of the Port Harcourt Refinery Company, citing unexpected risks and challenges associated with brownfield projects.

The Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPC, Olufemi Soneye, revealed that despite achieving mechanical completion several months ago, the commissioning of critical equipment and processing units was hindered by unforeseen issues.

Soneye said that the challenges have been resolved, and commissioning activities have resumed.

“You may recall that mechanical completion of the PHRC revamp was successfully achieved several months ago, marking a significant milestone in the project. Following this, we began the commissioning of critical equipment and process units.

“However, as is common with brownfield projects of this scale and complexity, we encountered unforeseen risks and challenges,” he said.

He added, “These issues have since been effectively resolved, and commissioning activities have resumed.

“Work is being carried out around the clock to ensure the successful completion of this critical project.”

The NNPC has been cautious about providing new deadlines, having missed seven previous targets. When asked about the timeline for the completion of work on the refinery, the NNPC spokesperson said, “Shortly.”

The Port Harcourt refinery, one of three owned by the Federal Government and managed by the NNPC, has been dormant for years despite being operational since 1965.

Nigerians hope that with the refinery functioning, fuel imports will reduce and prices lowered.