Assurances have been given by the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee investigating Nigeria’s refineries’ maintenance that the Port Harcourt Refinery will soon be operational before the conclusion of December.
In alignment with the policies of the Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians through the Renewed Hope Agenda, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara mentioned that efforts were being made to enhance access to the Port Harcourt Refinery by constructing the Woji-Aleto-Alesa-Refinery Road, which is nearing completion.
During a courtesy visit to the Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday, the Governor shared these insights with the Chairman of the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee, Senator Ifeanyi Ubah, and his team.
The information was relayed in a statement released in Port Harcourt on Saturday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.
Governor Fubara emphasized the essence of governance being to simplify the lives of its citizens. He expressed his satisfaction with the Committee’s efforts, anticipating a positive impact on the populace.
He highlighted the state government’s initiative to support refinery operations through the construction of the Woji-Aleto-Alesa Refinery Road, which is set to alleviate traffic congestion along the East-West Road.
Fubara envisioned the advantages to be gained once the refinery is back in operation, emphasizing the positive effects it would have on the economy and revenue generation for the state.
He reiterated the state’s commitment to serving its people diligently, despite any presented challenges, underscoring the importance of prioritizing the well-being of the populace.
Addressing the Senate Committee, Fubara urged them to leverage the peaceful and hospitable nature of the state for productive interactions that would benefit all parties involved.
Senator Ubah, representing Anambra South Senatorial District, outlined their purpose for visiting the Port Harcourt Refinery, emphasizing the Senate’s resolution to ensure the effective functioning of Nigeria’s refineries to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
He expressed optimism about the progress made towards refurbishing the refinery, indicating that operations are nearing an operational state, expected to begin before the year’s end.
The Port Harcourt Refinery’s operationalization has been a subject of contradictory information from both the Federal Government and NEPAL, causing uncertainty regarding the actual start date.