The Port-Harcourt refinery, with a capacity of 210,000 barrels per day, is expected to begin operations by the end of July after experiencing multiple delays.
The National Public Relations Officer of the Independent Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chief Ukadike Chinedu, announced the new date on Monday.
He mentioned that the progress would boost economic growth, lower petroleum product costs, and guarantee sufficient supply.
The IPMAN said, “Yes when we visited the place, the MD told us that the refinery was almost ready and by the end of July, they would start producing. It has been turned into a new one they changed all the armoured cable to brand new and everything there is almost like a brand-new refinery.
“The turnaround on maintenance is very massive and the job is being done day and night. All hands are on deck to make sure that they meet that target. By ending of July the refinery should be ready.”
“They are not facing any challenges at all; I can say the refinery is 99 per cent ready.
“What we want is competition. I am very sure that with the two refineries, the price of petrol will be reduced. Dangote is coming soon and the Port Harcourt refinery is almost ready too and that is very good. We need that competition for the benefit of the nation.”