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Sources indicate that the recent reopening of the Warri Refinery, despite its inability to produce Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, is seen as an effort by Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) CEO, Mele Kyari, to secure favor from President Bola Tinubu and potentially extend his term.
The Warri Refining and Petrochemicals Company (WRPC), which had been inactive for nearly a decade, resumed partial operations. However, insiders reveal that the refinery, located in Warri, Delta State, is currently limited to producing Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), also known as diesel, and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK). The production of petrol, Nigeria’s most in-demand fuel, remains out of reach as only one of the three operational plants is functional.
This strategic move comes as Kyari approaches his mandatory retirement age of 60 on January 8, 2025. Observers suggest the timing of the refinery’s partial reopening aims to bolster Kyari’s standing with President Tinubu ahead of his retirement date.
“Yes, the plant is operational but cannot produce PMS yet. It’s similar to the situation at Port Harcourt Refinery,” a source disclosed. “Kyari’s approaching retirement is driving this push for refinery activity to create the impression that progress is being made.”
Kyari led a tour of the Warri Refinery, highlighting the facility’s revival but acknowledging it is not yet running at full capacity.
“We are showing you the plant is active. It’s not at 100 percent, but it’s in progress. Some doubt such developments are achievable in this country, but this is proof of progress,” Kyari stated during the tour.
The $898 million rehabilitation project aimed to restore the Warri Refinery following years of neglect and crude oil shortages. While restarting production marks a step forward, concerns persist about the facility’s ability to produce petrol and meet national demands.
