NNPC Refutes Explosion Claims at Warri Refinery, Reveals Ongoing Maintenance
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has clarified that there was no explosion at the Warri Refinery and Petrochemical Company, debunking widespread rumors about a blast at the facility. NNPC’s Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, addressed the reports on Friday, explaining that the refinery’s current limited operations were due to planned maintenance.
Soneye confirmed that operations at the refinery were intentionally curtailed on January 25, 2025, to carry out essential maintenance on specific equipment, particularly field instruments, which were affecting consistent production. These interventions are necessary to ensure that the refinery can continue to produce high-quality products such as Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and kerosene.
“NNPC Ltd wishes to clarify that there was no explosion at the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company. Any reports suggesting otherwise are completely false,” Soneye stated in his official release.
Despite the ongoing maintenance, Soneye emphasized that the refinery continues to load trucks with diesel and kerosene. Over the past 11 days, an average of eight trucks per day have been loaded, ensuring the continued supply of products. He assured stakeholders that the refinery’s Area 1 would be back in full operation within a few days.
“NNPC Ltd remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted product supply and appreciates the patience and cooperation of all stakeholders as we complete these essential maintenance activities,” he added.
In December 2024, NNPC had announced that the Warri refinery had resumed operations, producing diesel and kerosene, though petrol production has yet to commence.
Additionally, security experts have raised concerns about undocumented foreigners holding Nigerian National Identification Numbers (NINs), with some arguing that the issue is not new but worsened by porous borders and a lack of political will. Brig. Gen. Aliyu Momoh (retd.) highlighted that non-Nigerians are moving freely within the country without proper documentation, a situation that has persisted for years despite efforts to address it.
While acknowledging the challenges, Momoh praised the current administration for its efforts and emphasized the importance of stronger actions to tackle this issue.
