The Warri Refining and Petrochemicals Company (WRPC) in Delta State, Nigeria, has restarted operations, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to reduce reliance on imported petroleum products.
The 125,000-barrel-per-day refinery is now producing diesel, kerosene, and naphtha, according to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
During a facility tour on Monday, December 30, 2024, NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari, confirmed the refinery’s progress. “We have demonstrated that restarting a deliberately shut-down plant is possible. This plant is running and producing high-quality petroleum products essential for both domestic consumption and export,” Kyari stated.
Current Operations: The refinery has resumed at its first stage (Area 1), with full functionality expected to include petrol (PMS) production in subsequent phases.
Strategic Impact: The refinery is expected to reduce the importation of refined products, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s directive to restore all national refineries.
Other Projects in Progress: The old Port Harcourt Refinery has also resumed operations with a capacity of 65,000 barrels per day, while restoration work is ongoing at the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company.
Kyari noted that WRPC’s output could generate export revenue, further bolstering Nigeria’s economy. “This achievement reflects the determination and collaboration of our team and contractors. Nigeria will now be positioned as a competitive exporter of petroleum products,” he added.
Facility Details and Market Reach
Commissioned in 1978, WRPC produces 13,000 metric tons per annum (MTA) of polypropylene and 18,000 MTA of carbon black, primarily supplying the southern and southwestern regions of Nigeria.
The refinery’s restoration underscores NNPCL’s commitment to revitalizing Nigeria’s energy sector. With progress at other national refineries, the WRPC is set to play a pivotal role in achieving the government’s vision of self-sufficiency in petroleum refining.
