The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has invited former President Olusegun Obasanjo to tour the Port Harcourt Refinery and assess its operational status.
This invitation follows remarks made by Obasanjo in a recent interview with Channels Television, in which he referenced advice from Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC).
According to the former president, SPDC had expressed doubts about the refinery’s ability to operate effectively, citing concerns over corruption that could hinder its operations. SPDC had also reportedly been approached about acquiring equity in the refinery.
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Obasanjo further accused NNPCL of misleading Nigerians regarding the refinery’s functionality.
In response to these allegations, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, extended a cordial invitation to Obasanjo, underscoring the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability in its operations.
Soneye said: “Furthermore, we extend an open invitation to President Obasanjo for a tour of the rehabilitated refineries to witness firsthand the progress made under the new NNPC Limited.”
Soneye also extended an invitation to Obasanjo to collaborate with the NNPCL in its efforts to ensure the country’s energy security.
“We invite our esteemed former president to join us in this effort as we continue to deliver energy security for our nation and provide tangible benefits to Nigerians.
“His wisdom and experience are invaluable, and we assure him that his advice will always be welcomed and appreciated,” he said.
Soneye clarified that the NNPCL not only conducted turnaround maintenance on the plant but also undertook a comprehensive overhaul of the refinery.
He said: “As part of this transformation, NNPC Limited has gone beyond oil and gas to become an integrated energy company.
“One of our notable achievements is the complete rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PhRC) and Warri Refinery.
“This process was not merely the Turnaround Maintenance (TAM) of the past but a full-scale overhaul designed to meet world-class standards. Similarly, we are currently conducting the same comprehensive rehabilitation of the old Port Harcourt Refinery and Kaduna Refinery.”
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He further mentioned that NNPCL has transformed from a government corporation into a privately held company with limited liability.
He explained that as a result of this transition, NNPCL has shifted from being a loss-incurring organization to a profit-driven global energy firm.
The newly established NNPC Limited, he stated, is dedicated not only to upgrading these refineries but also to maintaining them at international standards.
Soneye emphasized that NNPCL is committed to ensuring their long-term sustainability and making a substantial contribution to Nigeria’s energy security.
He said: “Regarding his recent comments, we would like to respectfully clarify the current state of the NNPC.
The NNPC has undergone a significant transformation, transitioning from a government corporation to a private entity known as NNPC Limited.
“This transition has marked a significant shift from being a loss-making organization to a profit-oriented global energy company.”
“We deeply respect and hold President Obasanjo in the highest regard as a distinguished statesman who has contributed significantly to the progress of our nation.
“He has every right to share his perspectives on national issues, and we value his insights and counsel.”
He said: “We remain grateful for his leadership and enduring commitment to the growth and development of Nigeria. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for our great nation.”
Soneye, who was also requested to react to a media report that NNPCL was to stop the supply of crude oil to Dangote Refinery said, “No need to respond to falsehood.”
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