The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has officially announced a scheduled maintenance shutdown of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), which will commence on May 24, 2025.

According to a statement released by NNPC Ltd's Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Femi Soneye, the shutdown is part of a planned maintenance and sustainability assessment aimed at ensuring the optimal performance of the facility.

"The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited wishes to inform the general public that the Port Harcourt Refining Company will undergo a planned maintenance shutdown. This scheduled maintenance and sustainability assessment will commence on May 24, 2025," the statement read.

Soneye further explained that NNPC Ltd is working closely with relevant stakeholders, including the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), to ensure that the maintenance and assessment activities are carried out efficiently and with full transparency.

The company has assured the public that regular updates about the development will be provided through official channels as the maintenance progresses.

"NNPC Ltd remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering sustainable energy security," the statement concluded.

While the announcement did not specify the duration of the shutdown or its potential impact on petroleum product supply, industry observers note that such maintenance activities are essential for the long-term operational efficiency of refining facilities.

The Port Harcourt Refinery is one of Nigeria's key petroleum processing facilities, and its optimal functioning is crucial to the country's domestic fuel supply chain.