Nigerian Oil Marketers Advocate for Foreign Technical Partners in Port Harcourt Refinery Revival
The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has urged the Federal Government to consider reputable foreign companies as technical and equity partners in managing the Port Harcourt refinery, commending NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari for initiating the revival process.
PETROAN praised NNPC for awarding the refinery assessment contract to UOP, a renowned international firm, demonstrating commitment to making the facility functional under the Technical and Equity partnership model. The association noted the model’s proven effectiveness at the Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas Bonny facility.
National President Dr Billy Gillis-Harry emphasized that refinery operationalization will serve as a price check mechanism, providing vital safeguards against downstream sector monopolies while promoting competitive pricing and preventing unfair market practices.
The association advocates for a transparent, expedited revival process devoid of political interference, expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for infrastructure development initiatives, particularly ongoing efforts to fix the Eleme Express Road, crucial for petroleum product transportation.
The Port Harcourt Refinery was shut down for maintenance in May 2025 following the completion of its $1.5 billion rehabilitation in November 2024.
Source: nairametrics.com
