The Port Harcourt Refinery Bulk Petroleum Retailers Association (HOSCOM PETBRA) has sounded an urgent call to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the lingering shutdown of the Old Port Harcourt Refinery. The association warns that the extended closure is crippling economic activities and endangering livelihoods across host communities in Eleme, Okrika, and other areas in Rivers State.
Addressing a press conference in Port Harcourt, HOSCOM PETBRA expressed deep concern over the refinery’s continued inactivity. The refinery, which was officially shut down on May 24, 2025, for a scheduled 30-day maintenance, has remained non-operational more than 60 days later.
The association described the situation as “devastating,” noting that the prolonged shutdown is not only stalling business operations but also worsening unemployment and economic hardship for thousands of residents who rely on the refinery’s ecosystem.
HOSCOM PETBRA stressed that the delay is undermining President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, particularly his commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s petroleum sector. They emphasized that the lack of transparent communication and action from relevant authorities is eroding public confidence in the government’s economic reforms.
The group urged the Federal Government, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd), and other stakeholders to fast-track repair works and ensure the refinery resumes operations without further delay. They also called for a clear update on the challenges hindering the refinery’s reopening, to restore trust and safeguard local economies.
As the shutdown drags on, concerns continue to mount over its ripple effect on fuel supply chains, pump prices, and Nigeria’s broader efforts towards energy security and industrial growth.
