The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has invited former President Olusegun Obasanjo to tour its recently rehabilitated Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.
This follows Obasanjo’s public skepticism regarding the effectiveness of the $2 billion invested in the facilities.
In a recent television interview, Obasanjo expressed doubts about the progress at the refineries, referencing challenges encountered during his administration in efforts to revamp Nigeria’s refining capacity.
“I was told not too long ago that since that time, more than two billion dollars have been squandered on the refinery, and they still will not work. If anyone tells you now that it is working, why are they still with Aliko? Aliko will not only make his refinery work but also make it deliver,” he said, alluding to Aliko Dangote’s ongoing refinery project.
Responding to the concerns, NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Mr. Olufemi Soneye, acknowledged Obasanjo’s contributions to Nigeria’s development while emphasizing the company’s recent strides.
“We hold President Olusegun Obasanjo in the highest regard as a statesman who has significantly contributed to Nigeria’s development. His observations are deeply respected. However, we wish to emphasize that NNPC has undergone a remarkable transformation,” Soneye said.
He outlined how NNPC has transitioned from a loss-making entity to a profit-driven global energy player. Soneye also highlighted the comprehensive nature of the refinery rehabilitations, noting they were designed to meet world-class standards—marking a departure from the less effective Turnaround Maintenance of the past.
Attributing the progress to the leadership of NNPC’s board, headed by Group CEO Mele Kyari, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s transformative energy policies, Soneye extended an invitation to Obasanjo to see the improvements for himself.
“We warmly invite President Obasanjo to tour the rehabilitated refineries. His wisdom and experience are invaluable, and we deeply appreciate his guidance. This visit will provide an opportunity to witness the progress we have achieved under NNPC Limited’s leadership,” Soneye stated.
