The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) has commenced the modernization of the Kaduna Refinery and the second Port Harcourt Refinery in a move aimed at improving the nation’s refining capacity. The rehabilitation project is part of NNPC’s broader strategy to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products and achieve self-sufficiency in fuel production. Both refineries are expected to be upgraded to meet international standards and enhance their operational efficiency.
The modernization initiative comes after years of underperformance by Nigeria’s refineries, which have operated far below capacity due to aging infrastructure and poor maintenance. NNPC’s Group CEO, Mele Kyari, stated that the refurbishment is a critical step toward achieving Nigeria’s energy security goals. He emphasized that once completed, the upgraded refineries will significantly reduce the cost of fuel imports and improve the availability of petroleum products in the domestic market.
The Kaduna Refinery, located in the northern region, has a refining capacity of 110,000 barrels per day, while the second Port Harcourt Refinery can process up to 150,000 barrels per day. The modernization project will focus on replacing obsolete equipment, enhancing safety protocols, and improving environmental compliance. The NNPC has partnered with international engineering firms to ensure the success of the project and minimize delays.
The Nigerian government has expressed optimism that the refinery upgrades will create job opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the regions where the refineries are located. In addition to boosting local refining capacity, the modernization will help reduce the financial burden of subsidizing imported fuel, which has strained the country’s budget in recent years. The project is expected to be completed within the next few years, with NNPC working to meet its targets on schedule.
The modernization of Nigeria’s refineries is seen as a crucial step toward achieving energy independence. Industry experts believe that the successful rehabilitation of these refineries will position Nigeria as a key player in Africa’s downstream oil sector. NNPC’s ongoing efforts to revamp its refining infrastructure are part of a broader plan to transform the company into a more efficient and commercially viable enterprise.
