The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), has extended an invitation to former Olusegun Obasanjo, to tour the Port Harcourt Refinery to confirm its operational status.
This is following the former president’s latest interview with Channels Television, in which he questioned the NNPC’s ability to run the country’s refineries effectively.
The former Nigerian leader also alleged that the national oil company has been misleading Nigerians about the refinery’s functionality.
According to the former president, Shell Petroleum Development Company (SPDC), which was approached to acquire equity in the refinery, expressed concerns about corruption impeding its operations.
Obasanjo further alleged that NNPCL has been misleading Nigerians about the refinery’s functionality.
Responding to the claims, NNPCL’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, respectfully invited the former president to visit the facility, emphasizing the company’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
“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.
“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.”
“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.
“We welcome President Obasanjo to witness the transformation of the Port Harcourt Refinery. This is not a mere Turnaround Maintenance, but a comprehensive overhaul aligned with global standards.”
“The revitalisation of refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna underscores the company’s commitment to Nigeria’s energy security.
“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.”
“Regarding his (Obasanjo’s) recent comments, we would like to respectfully clarify the current state of the NNPC. The NNPC has undergone a transformative journey, evolving from a government corporation into a private entity, 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.
“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.”