
President Tinubu commits to reviving Port Harcourt and Warri refineries despite Obasanjo's doubts
President Bola Tinubu has stated that the state-owned Port Harcourt and Warri refineries will return to operation, a position that contrasts with former President Olusegun Obasanjo's long-standing skepticism regarding the viability of government-run refineries. Tinubu made his stance clear during a meeting with the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, emphasizing his responsibility to fix and make the facilities profitable. Obasanjo, citing his experience as President from 1999 to 2007, has consistently argued that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited cannot successfully operate these refineries and advocates for public-private partnerships. He recalled attempts to involve Shell in managing the refineries, which were declined due to concerns about their small size, poor maintenance, and corruption. Obasanjo also mentioned that an offer by Aliko Dangote to acquire a 51 percent stake in two refineries for $750 million during his tenure was later reversed by his successor, former President Umaru Musa Yar鈥橝dua. Energy expert Dan Kunle has also criticized the continued rehabilitation efforts, suggesting privatization and redirection of public funds to other economic sectors, arguing that the refineries will never work profitably. However, the Port Harcourt Refinery Host Community Bulk Petroleum Retailers Association has expressed support for Tinubu's plan, pledging to work towards increasing his votes in Rivers State if the refinery becomes fully operatio



