Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has officially commenced a one-month planned maintenance shutdown of the Port Harcourt Refining Company. The announcement, initially reported by Saturday PUNCH and subsequently confirmed by NNPC Ltd, indicates the facility will be offline for crucial maintenance activities starting today, Saturday, May 24, 2025.

According to Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer for NNPC Ltd, the shutdown is a "scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment." Soneye emphasized that the exercise is designed to ensure the "continued safe and sustainable operation of the facility," aligning with global best practices.

NNPC Ltd is collaborating with key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, to guarantee the efficiency and transparency of the maintenance activities. The company reiterated its commitment to maintaining "sustainable energy security for Nigeria" throughout this period.

While the shutdown is officially for maintenance, it comes amidst some local resistance. Indigenous fuel retailers in Eleme, the host community for the refinery, had voiced opposition to the shutdown plan, with some even alleging sabotage by certain officials. However, Soneye has strongly refuted these claims, asserting that the maintenance is solely for operational integrity.

Despite the temporary closure, NNPC Ltd assures the public that there will be no disruption to the supply of petroleum products. The company has confirmed that it holds "adequate volumes of AGO, kerosene, and other products" to ensure uninterrupted supply during the maintenance period. Regular updates regarding the refinery's status will be provided through official NNPC Ltd channels, including their website, media platforms, and public statements.