Just In: Insider Reveals The Main Reasons For Warri Refinery Shut Down

Just In: Insider Reveals The Main Reasons For Warri Refinery Shut Down

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has announced a temporary halt in operations at the recently re-streamed Warri Refinery, citing routine maintenance as the reason. The company assured the public that the facility would resume operations shortly.…….READ MORE 

In a statement released on Friday, NNPC’s Chief Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, refuted claims of an explosion at the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC), labeling such reports as “completely false.”

Soneye clarified that operations at WRPC Area 1 were intentionally paused on January 25, 2025, to perform essential maintenance on specific equipment critical to the refinery’s consistent and sustainable performance.

“These maintenance activities are crucial to ensure the production of quality finished and intermediate products, particularly Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Kerosene,” the statement said.

Despite the maintenance, the company highlighted that diesel (AGO) loading has continued at an average of eight trucks per day, maintaining a steady supply for transportation needs.

“The routine maintenance is proceeding as scheduled, and Area 1 is expected to be operational again within a few days. NNPC Ltd remains dedicated to ensuring an uninterrupted supply of petroleum products and appreciates the patience and cooperation of stakeholders during this period,” Soneye added.

The 125,000-barrel-per-day Warri Refinery was re-streamed just before the New Year, following over a decade of inactivity. NNPC previously indicated that the refinery was running at 60% capacity after undergoing rehabilitation.

In August 2021, the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved $1.48 billion for the refurbishment of both the Warri and Kaduna refineries as part of a broader effort to boost Nigeria’s local refining capabilities.

NNPC’s latest statement aims to ease public concerns and reaffirm its commitment to stabilizing petroleum product supplies amid ongoing refinery upgrades.