The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has called on the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) to strictly adhere to its proposed 30-day repair schedule for the old Port Harcourt refinery.
In a statement issued on Sunday, PETROAN spokesperson Joseph Obele conveyed remarks from the association’s president, Billy Gillis-Harry. He emphasized that completing the repairs within the timeline is critical to avoid fresh disruptions in fuel supply.
“PETROAN fears the 30-day schedule may not be realistic due to recurring bottlenecks, which could lead to delays and intensify product scarcity,” Obele said.
The association expressed concern that further delays in fixing the refinery may worsen economic hardship for millions of Nigerians already struggling under inflationary pressure.
PETROAN’s Key Demands for Transparency and Fair Competition
NNPC had earlier announced that maintenance and a sustainability audit of the facility would begin on May 24 and last for 30 days. In response, PETROAN outlined several measures it believes are essential for the success of the project.
One of the top priorities is the integration of the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) blending unit. Obele stressed that without this component, the crude oil cracking process would serve little purpose.
“The PMS blending unit must be included in the repair scope to ensure the refinery delivers usable petrol after the turnaround,” he said.
Additionally, PETROAN urged NNPC to complete the repairs before the current fuel stocks run out. The group warned that delays could lead to market monopolization and disrupt stable supply.
Call for Oversight, Timely Payments, and Public Updates
To ensure accountability, the association recommended that the Minister of Petroleum set up a stakeholder-led task force to monitor the progress of the repairs. It also proposed weekly public briefings to keep Nigerians informed.
“The task force should provide Nigerians with weekly updates to ensure transparency and keep the project on schedule,” Obele said.
Furthermore, PETROAN called for the prompt payment of contractors. The group warned that financial delays could derail the entire repair effort.
Staying on Schedule Serves the Nation
The association concluded that meeting the 30-day deadline would protect sector-wide competition, serve the interests of consumers, and strengthen the national economy.
“This is not just about the refinery—it’s about Nigeria’s energy future. Completing the project on time ensures stability, accountability, and public confidence,” PETROAN stated.