The Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) said it is optimistic about the rehabilitation of the Warri and Kaduna refineries, stating that it earnestly hopes that the projects also come to fruition soon.

This came following the successful completion and re-streaming of the Port Harcourt Refinery after several years of work. NUPENG President, Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale, in a statement, said the Port Harcourt Refinery stands as a beacon of hope, as it reinforces the country’s collective optimism for the rehabilitation of the Warri and Kaduna refineries.

They said the remaining refineries would provide the much-needed stimulus to the country’s economy and ease the energy burden faced by Nigerians. They expressed confidence that Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) would deliver on the expectations, stating that NUPENG remains a steadfast partner in the collective journey toward achieving a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable oil and gas sector.

As the refinery resumes production and begins loading critical products, they said, the union is reminded of the essential role the progress plays in addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges, alleviating hardship for workers and citizens, while fostering economic stability.

The union said the commencement of crude oil processing and the dispatch of petroleum products from the refinery is a landmark achievement that resonated deeply with the aspirations of Nigerian workers and citizens.

The milestone, according to them, demonstrates NNPCL’s unwavering commitment to achieving energy independence and fostering sustainable economic growth for our dear nation.

“Your exemplary commitment and resilience in steering the Port-Harcourt Refinery Company (PHRC) rehabilitation project to completion, despite numerous challenges, reflect the highest standards of dedication and determination,” the statement said.

Also, the African Refinery Group (ARG) extended its heartfelt congratulations to the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) on the successful restoration of production and resumption of crude oil processing at the Port Harcourt Refinery. The reopening, which took place on Tuesday, it said, marked a significant milestone as the refinery, shutdown since 2019, roared back to life.

In a statement by its Executive Director of Subsidiaries, Omotayo Adebajo expressed pride in its role as one of the four companies granted concessions under a public-private partnership with NNPCL. This collaboration includes the operation of key downstream supply and distribution facilities, such as the newly reopened Port Harcourt Refinery terminal facilities.