The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), has condemned falsehood against the Port Harcourt Refinery (PHRC), says despite recent attempts from some competitors to mislead the public, the PHRC is fully operational and delivering efficiently.
This disclosure was made in a press release issued by Blessing A. Akinlosotu, Executive Director, The National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) , on Friday in Abuja.
Available and verifiable information confirms that the refinery is up and running, contrary to claims suggesting otherwise. NCSCN has been at the forefront of setting the records straight, reaffirming that the PHRC is indeed fully operational. The council has expressed concern over the spread of misinformation, which appears to be part of a broader strategy to fight competition in the industry.
To further promote transparency and accountability, the NCSCN has perfected arrangements to lead a 50-man delegation of strategic stakeholders and civil society organization heads on an independent assessment visit to the PHRC in January 2025. The visit aims to provide firsthand information on the refinery’s production capacity and operational records, which will be made public globally to dispel any doubts or misconceptions.
This move is particularly noteworthy, given the recent controversies surrounding the refinery’s operational status. The stability in petroleum product supplies and distribution across the country during this festive season is a testament to the leadership’s competence and the refinery’s operational efficiency.
Some Nigerians have commended the NCSCN for promoting transparency and accountability in the Port Harcourt Refinery Corporation’s (PHRC) operations. The council’s efforts are indeed commendable, and their findings are highly anticipated. By advocating for transparency and accountability, the NCSCN is helping to ensure that Nigerians benefit from functional refineries, which is essential for alleviating their sufferings .
As the council has noted, Nigerians deserve functional refineries, and it is crucial to acknowledge the progress made by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the PHRC. The NNPCL’s efforts to strengthen transparency and accountability in the oil and gas sector are noteworthy, and the PHRC’s operational efficiency is a testament to the company’s commitment to progress.
The NCSCN’s initiatives align with the global push for transparency and accountability in governance. Organizations like the Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA) are also working tirelessly to promote openness and accountability in public service . Similarly, the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria is supporting initiatives that enhance transparency and accountability in the country .
Overall, the NCSCN’s efforts to promote transparency and accountability in the PHRC’s operations are a step in the right direction. Their findings will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing conversation about the need for functional refineries and transparent governance in Nigeria