Business
PORT HARCOURT REFINERY AND THE TRUTH WE MUST KNOW* By Eguono King
*PORT HARCOURT REFINERY AND THE TRUTH WE MUST KNOW*
By Eguono King
The story of the Port Harcourt Refinery’s alleged operation is one that stands out as a significant lesson in the developing tale of Nigeria’s petroleum industry. It is replete with deceit, laced with ineptitude, and a violation of public confidence. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited’s (NNPCL) Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), Mele Kyari, has once again demonstrated that he is better at publicity stunts than at executing true leadership. His recent statements regarding the refinery are not only false, but they also represent a larger systemic breakdown that jeopardizes the future of Nigeria’s oil industry.
It would take just a little digging to unpack the layers of deception surrounding the Port Harcourt Refinery. Kyari’s role in perpetuating this fraud is now very clear to President Tinubu to see him for what he truly is: an inherited problem from the Buhari administration who must be pruned from his administration and held accountable for the grave injustice done to Nigerians. The oil sector is too critical to Nigeria’s economy and national security to be left in the hands of unaccountable individuals.
It would be important to understand that the Port Harcourt Refinery has long served as a representation of Nigeria’s faltering oil sector. Once a ray of hope for the country’s ability to produce its own refined petroleum products, it has been enmeshed in political mismanagement, corruption, and operational inefficiency for decades. Nigerians are now dependent on imported petroleum products since the refinery has not lived up to expectations despite billions of dollars in alleged “rehabilitation” works.
In this context, many knowledgeable observers already viewed Kyari’s statement of the refinery’s purported functionality with skepticism. And rightly so: further investigation has shown that the refinery has not actually started refining Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) as stated. Rather, the entire story seems to have been made up to score cheap political points and divert attention away from the NNPCL leadership’s persistent failure.
The scope of this fraud that NNPCL masterminded under Kyari’s direction is demonstrated by a two-phased reports.
Firstly, a quick observation of this charade highlights a stark similarity between the Port Harcourt Refinery and the doomed Nigeria Airways project. It can be recalled that the Nigerian Airways was a ponzi joke which lasted for a while, and was cunningly used to siphon public funds under the pretense of developing our aviation sector. These programs have come to reflect the level of incompetence and deceit going on in the government. The refinery’s touted functionality is nothing more than a flightless dream – an obvious mirage designed to manipulate and sway public perception.
Secondly, information from a whistleblowers within NNPCL have revealed the shocking reality: PMS is not being refined at all by the refinery. These insiders claim that NNPCL has resorted to blending imported products such as Naphtha and cracked petroleum resins, to provide the illusion of domestic refining. This deceitful behavior not only erodes public confidence but also calls into question the integrity of NNPCL’s leadership. The revelation that parts of the refinery capable of producing PMS are still non-functional further discredits Kyari’s claims. It is now evident that the trucking of petroleum products from the refinery was staged, with NNPCL relying on external purchases to mask the refinery’s continued dormancy.
There has been a pattern of mismanagement, dishonesty, and a blatant disregard for accountability during Mele Kyari’s time as NNPCL’s GCEO. A number of his acts have undermined trust in NNPCL, its capacity to fulfill its purpose, and his handling of the Port Harcourt Refinery issue is just the most recent. The tenure of Kyari’s leadership has seen the oil industry devolved into a theater of unfulfilled promises. From botched refinery restoration initiatives to dubious financial dealings, Kyari has continuously and consistently prioritized short-term optics above long-term fixes. His leadership style has been defined by a lack of transparency and a reluctance to confront the systemic problems that the oil and gas industry Is facing. The question of concern remains, Why is President Bola Tinubu still working with such burden in his administration?
The Port Harcourt Refinery debacle exemplifies Kyari’s modus operandi: using elaborate publicity stunts to mask underlying failures. By falsely claiming that the refinery is operational, Kyari has not only misled Nigerians but also jeopardized the credibility of NNPCL at a critical time when the nation is grappling with economic challenges and rising energy costs.
The damage Inflicted by Mele Kyari on Nigeria’s oil and gas sector extends beyond immediate financial and operational losses, it has deeply undermined public trust in the industry and government. For decades, Nigerians have been promised a robust and self-sufficient refining sector, yet time and again, these promises have been betrayed. The Port Harcourt Refinery fiasco symbolizes the culmination of years of mismanagement and deceit, and the public’s patience is wearing thin. His actions are a stark betrayal of confidence imposed in him by his employer, the president. Without he himself realizing it, he has created a subconscious, deep-seated longing for the sort of invidiously stratified, poor regime that’s being strengthened with every bad Policy and public stunts he has ever adopted for a cover-up.
Kyari must be held accountable for his acts if Nigeria’s petroleum industry is to regain public confidence. President Tinubu needs to take firm action to stop the corruption in NNPCL and acknowledge Kyari as a liability that was passed down from the Buhari administration. The Port Harcourt Refinery allegations and other contentious choices taken during Kyari’s leadership should first be the subject of an impartial investigation. Finding the entire scope of the deceit and identifying the syndicates he employed in deceiving the public should be the goals of this investigation.
Secondly, NNPCL’s operations and leadership need to be completely overhauled, because it’s obvious that with the level of corruption going on there, nothing good will come from such leadership. A new generation of leaders dedicated to transparency and commitment must be introduced, and the culture of impunity that Kyari has fostered must be destroyed.
Lastly, real refinery restoration initiatives that are led by professionals and devoid of political interference must be given top priority by the government. Only by establishing a viable, self-sufficient refining industry will Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products be lessened as a national security threat.
It is a fact that , “From error to error, one discovers the entire truth,” Sigmund Freud once said. In other words, errors in speech and in writing sometimes serve as lenses that help reveal an unconscious, suppressed, or subdued desire or internal thought. Nigerians have endured this multiple errors thrown at them, and now it’s time to embrace the truth. Kyari’s actions are intentional errors that were made to profit some few individuals at the expense of the livelihood of millions of individuals. Mr President error is in retaining a catastrophe like Kyari in his administration up till this present moment, and it will be a great disservice to the country if he doesn’t remove him from his position.
To tell Nigerians the truth, Mele Kyari’s tenure as GCEO of NNPCL has been a disaster for Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and for the future of millions of Nigerians dependent on it. His deceptive claims about the Port Harcourt Refinery are a proven stark reminder of the dangers of entrusting critical national assets to individuals who lack the vision and integrity to manage them effectively. One of the biggest enablers of corruption and inefficiency in Nigeria’s oil sector is the culture of impunity that allows officials like Kyari to operate without fear of accountability. This must change. A strong message needs to be sent that no one, regardless of position or influence, is above the law.
The Port Harcourt Refinery controversy is more than just a scandal to be debated upon, it is a reflection of the systemic dysfunction that has plagued Nigeria’s oil sector for decades. The final decision is in the hands of Mr President if he’s truly conscious of implementing his renewed hope agenda. President Tinubu has a unique opportunity to chart a new course for Nigeria’s petroleum sector. By confronting the failures of the past and taking bold steps to address the systemic issues within NNPCL, he can lay the foundation for a brighter, more sustainable future.
Kyari must be seen for what he is: a menace to the oil sector, a disappointment to the presidency, a liability, and a remnant of the failed policies of the Buhari administration that must be excised for the good of the nation. It is time for him to be pruned and convicted, and for NNPCL to undergo the radical transformation it so desperately needs. The truth about the Port Harcourt Refinery is just the tip of the iceberg—beneath it lies a deeper crisis that demands urgent attention and decisive action.
This is a crossroads moment for Nigeria. The decisions made in the coming months will determine whether the country continues to stumble under the weight of past failures or rises to meet the challenges of the future. Kyari must go, and the truth about the Port Harcourt Refinery must be a turning point, not just for the oil sector, but for the nation as a whole.
King wrote this piece from Port Harcourt.
FirstBank Makes Home Ownership Possible for Nigerians with Single-Digit Interest Rate Loan
For millions of Nigerians, homeownership has long felt like an ambition deferred. Squeezed by rising property prices, persistent double-digit inflation and high commercial lending rates, the dream of owning a home has remained just that – a dream.
But that narrative is quietly changing. Thanks to FirstBank.
The N1 Trillion Intervention Reshaping Access
In partnership with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated Real Estate Investment Fund (MREIF), FirstBank has unveiled a mortgage opportunity that could redefine access to housing finance in Nigeria.
Backed by the Federal Government’s N1trillion mortgage fund, the initiative is designed to empower Nigerians with affordable, long-term credit to own their homes.
9.75% Interest Rate in a 30% Lending Environment
MREIF is priced at 9.75% per annum, dramatically lower than prevailing commercial loan rates. Eligible Nigerians can access up to N100 million and repay within 20 years. This translates into significantly more manageable monthly repayments and greater long-term financial stability.
Built for Salary Earners, Entrepreneurs and the Diaspora
The MREIF mortgage facility has been structured to be inclusive. It is available to salary account holders, business owners and diaspora customers. Whether you are a young professional aiming to exit the rent cycle, an entrepreneur building generational stability, or you’re a Nigerian abroad looking to secure assets locally, the product opens a pathway that has historically been out of reach for many.
Taking the First Step
For those who have been waiting for the right time, this is definitely it. The question is no longer whether homeownership is possible. The real question is: will you act before the window narrows?
Visit https://www.firstbanknigeria.com/personal/loans/mreif-home-loan/ and in no time you could be the latest homeowner in town.
Alpha Morgan Bank Deepens Presence in Abuja with New Branch in Utako
Marking another milestone in its expansion drive, Alpha Morgan Bank has opened a new branch in Utako, Abuja, reinforcing its strategy of building closer institutional ties within key business communities and bringing its financial expertise closer to individuals, and enterprises driving the city’s growth.
The new branch, located at Plot 1121 Obafemi Awolowo Way, Utako, Abuja is strategically positioned to serve individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporate clients within Utako and surrounding districts.
The expansion follows the Bank’s recently concluded Economic Review Webinar held in February 2026, as the bank continues to position as a thought-leader in the financial services industry.
Speaking on the opening, Ade Buraimo, Managing Director of Alpha Morgan Bank, said the move underscores the Bank’s commitment to accessibility and service excellence.
“Proximity matters in banking. As communities grow and commercial activity expands, financial institutions also evolve to meet customers where they are. The Utako Branch allows us to deliver our services to people in that community efficiently while maintaining the high standards our customers expect,”
The Utako location will provide a full suite of retail and corporate banking services, including account opening, deposits, transfers, business banking solutions, and financial advisory support.
Customers and members of the public are invited to visit the new Utako Branch to experience the Bank’s approach to satisfying banking.
Dangote Refinery Prioritises Domestic Supply Amid Global Energy Turbulence
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Nigeria insulated from international fuel shocks as Dangote Petroleum commits to uninterrupted local delivery.”
Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has reaffirmed its commitment to prioritising the domestic market, pledging to shield Nigerians from the ripple effects of ongoing global energy disruptions. The assurance, delivered in Lagos on 5 March 2026, comes as international refinery operations experience shutdowns or reduced output due to escalating Middle East geopolitical tensions, which have sent crude oil and petroleum product prices soaring worldwide.
“Our mandate remains clear: Nigeria’s local market takes precedence. In times of global supply shocks, we will continue to ensure that domestic availability of petrol, diesel, and kerosene is uninterrupted,” said Mr. Folorunsho Alakija, spokesperson for Dangote Petroleum Refinery.
The refinery’s declaration arrives amid mounting concerns over fuel scarcity, triggered by export restrictions imposed by major international producers, including China, and shipping delays that have further tightened global petroleum supply chains. Industry analysts have hailed the domestic focus as a critical buffer against volatility that could otherwise push Nigeria into deeper energy insecurity.
Domestic Shield Against Global Disruption
Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil processing facility, has leveraged its multi-million-barrel refining capacity to mitigate Nigeria’s historical dependence on imported petroleum products. The company emphasised that prioritising local supply provides a strategic advantage in insulating the nation from international market shocks.
“Our refinery’s scale allows Nigeria to withstand short-term external disruptions. We have the infrastructure and capacity to meet local demand even when global supply chains falter,” explained Mr. Chijioke Okonkwo, Operations Director at Dangote Refinery.
The proactive approach is particularly significant as several international refineries have either reduced throughput or temporarily halted operations, causing a global scarcity of refined products. Experts warn that without domestic cushioning, fuel prices in Nigeria could have surged sharply, exacerbating inflationary pressures in a fragile economy.
Managing Costs While Prioritising Supply
In response to rising procurement costs for crude oil amid the international crisis, Dangote Refinery introduced a modest ₦100 per litre increase in the ex-depot price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), absorbing roughly 20 percent of the cost escalation to lessen the impact on consumers.
“We are balancing operational sustainability with affordability. While global prices have risen sharply, we have chosen to absorb a significant portion to protect Nigerian households and businesses,” noted Mr. Emmanuel Adeyemi, Chief Finance Officer.
This pricing strategy underscores the refinery’s dual focus: ensuring uninterrupted supply while cushioning the public from abrupt spikes that could destabilize economic activity. Industry observers have lauded the approach as pragmatic, considering the volatility in international oil markets.
Strategic Distribution Initiatives
Beyond refining, Dangote Petroleum has initiated Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) powered trucks to enhance nationwide distribution efficiency. The initiative seeks to reduce logistics costs and carbon emissions while ensuring a more reliable delivery network to petrol stations across urban and rural areas.
“Logistics is a critical part of the energy supply chain. By deploying CNG-powered trucks, we reduce dependency on expensive diesel, lower delivery costs, and improve supply reliability across the country,” explained Ms. Funke Adedoyin, Head of Logistics Operations.
This strategic move reflects a broader commitment to modernising Nigeria’s petroleum distribution infrastructure, reducing bottlenecks that have historically contributed to scarcity at retail outlets.
Implications for National Energy Security
Nigeria has historically struggled with fuel imports to meet domestic demand, making the country vulnerable to international market fluctuations. Dangote Refinery’s prioritisation of local supply mitigates this vulnerability by leveraging home-grown refining capacity, which allows for timely access to petroleum products and less reliance on foreign shipments.
“With Dangote Refinery leading local prioritisation, Nigeria is less exposed to global fuel shocks. The country is moving towards self-reliance in petroleum product supply,” commented Dr. Halima Suleiman, energy sector analyst.
Experts note that sustained operations at the refinery not only enhance energy security but also preserve foreign exchange, reduce import bills, and stabilise domestic market prices.
Corporate Social Responsibility and Market Stability
The refinery’s commitment is part of a broader corporate responsibility framework. Dangote Petroleum continues to engage with government agencies and regulatory bodies, ensuring that domestic supply is coordinated with Nigeria’s Petroleum Product Pricing and Regulatory Agency (PPPRA) to prevent panic buying and market distortions.
“We are in constant consultation with the government to ensure that our supply strategies align with national economic priorities,” said Mr. Alakija.
Such collaboration helps avert artificial shortages, stabilises pump prices, and maintains confidence in the domestic fuel market. Analysts argue that this approach exemplifies how private sector capabilities can complement governmental policies to enhance national resilience.
Navigating Global Uncertainties
The refinery operates in a complex global environment, where geopolitical crises, shipping constraints, and crude oil volatility can trigger disruptions. Dangote Petroleum’s domestic-first approach positions Nigeria to weather such crises more effectively.
“Global uncertainties are unavoidable, but our infrastructure and strategy ensure that Nigerians remain insulated from immediate shocks,” said Mr. Okonkwo.
This emphasis on resilience aligns with global best practices, where national refining capacity is leveraged to protect local markets from international supply disruptions.
Stakeholder Reactions
The government, civil society, and industry stakeholders have welcomed Dangote Petroleum’s strategy. Officials from the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources noted that prioritising local supply aligns with Nigeria’s energy security policies and reduces the burden of foreign exchange expenditures on crude imports.
“Dangote Refinery is demonstrating leadership. Its domestic prioritisation ensures that the Nigerian economy remains insulated during turbulent global markets,” said Dr. Tunji Olumide, Special Adviser on Energy.
Consumers have also expressed cautious optimism. Retail operators and commuters reported steadier fuel availability in Lagos and other cities, though concerns remain about sustained pricing and distribution efficiency.
The Road Ahead
While Dangote Refinery’s strategy provides immediate relief, experts argue that long-term stability requires further investments in alternative energy, diversified refining infrastructure, and strategic reserves. This ensures that Nigeria can withstand global shocks without relying excessively on imports or temporary supply adjustments.
“Short-term measures like prioritising local supply are critical, but long-term energy security demands diversification, renewables adoption, and consistent policy implementation,” said Dr. Suleiman.
The refinery is exploring additional initiatives, including expanding storage capacity, upgrading pipeline networks, and adopting technology-driven monitoring systems to ensure supply continuity across the country.
Final Take
By prioritising domestic fuel supply amid global market turbulence, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has demonstrated its role as a stabilising force in Nigeria’s energy sector. Through strategic logistics, modest pricing adjustments, and engagement with government regulators, the refinery is insulating the nation from international shocks while maintaining operational sustainability.
“Our responsibility extends beyond profitability; it’s about ensuring Nigerians have reliable access to essential fuel. We take that mandate seriously,” concluded Mr. Adeyemi.
The refinery’s actions offer a blueprint for how large-scale domestic capacity can protect national economies in times of global energy instability, underscoring the critical intersection of private sector resilience, public policy, and national energy security.
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