The Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) has confirmed that the Port Harcourt Refinery is operational, dismissing concerns raised by critics. Speaking on Arise TV, PENGASSAN’s National President, Festus Osifo, provided a detailed update on the refinery’s current output and process.
Key Products in Production
According to Osifo, the refinery’s Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) is actively producing essential petroleum products, including:
- Naphtha
- Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)
- Dual-Purpose Kerosene (DPK)
- Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)
Osifo clarified that although the Reforming Unit, which refines Naphtha into higher-octane petrol, is not yet functional, the refinery is blending Naphtha with “Crack C5” to produce PMS. “Nigerians should be focused on whether the refinery is delivering the necessary products. The answer is yes,” he stated.
Debunking Myths Around Refining PMS
Osifo emphasised that no refinery globally produces PMS directly from crude oil in one step. Instead, refineries blend various components to meet specific standards. “Even Dangote Refinery does not produce PMS directly; it requires further processing to meet octane requirements,” he added.
Looking Ahead
PENGASSAN remains optimistic that the refinery’s continued operation will stabilise Nigeria’s fuel supply, reduce dependency on imports, and improve energy security. As the facility ramps up production, it is expected to ease pressure on the country’s fuel supply chain.
This development signals a positive step towards energy independence, a sentiment echoed by industry stakeholders and government officials.