The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) and the Northern Awareness Network (NAN) have applauded the Federal Government and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for restarting operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery.
The refinery, which now processes 60,000 barrels of crude oil daily and loads 200 trucks of refined products, has been described by both groups as a milestone in Nigeria’s journey toward self-sufficiency in petroleum products and economic revitalization.
In separate statements, AYCF President-General Yerima Shettima and NAN Chairman Salihu Suleiman lauded the Federal Government and NNPCL Group CEO Mele Kyari for their commitment to rehabilitating critical national infrastructure.
Shettima emphasized that the refinery’s reactivation signifies hope for Nigeria’s oil industry after years of stagnation, while Suleiman noted that the facility’s operational status aligns with the government’s strategy to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
“The implications of this development extend beyond operational success,” Shettima said, “It will help stabilize fuel prices, create jobs, and enhance economic sovereignty.”
Suleiman highlighted the broader benefits, particularly for northern Nigeria. He stated that the availability of locally refined petroleum products would reduce transportation costs and stimulate growth in agriculture and industry.
Both leaders called on stakeholders to support the initiative and urged the government to ensure transparency and local community involvement in the refinery’s operations. NAN specifically advocated for sustainable practices to address environmental concerns linked to petroleum product importation and distribution.
They further emphasized the importance of collaboration among government agencies, private sector actors, and civil society in sustaining the progress made, noting that the refinery’s revival offers opportunities for job creation and economic transformation across the country.
The groups praised the government and NNPCL for their vision and hard work, calling the refinery’s reopening a beacon of hope for the nation.
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