The pan-Yoruba social-political group, Afenifere, has directed its call to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to ensure the Port Harcourt Refinery kick-starts operations by December, as previously promised by the Federal Government.
This plea comes in the wake of the government’s assurance that the local refinery would commence production by the end of the year.
The commitment to this ambitious timeline was echoed by Heineken Lokpobiri, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (oil), during an inspection of the rehabilitation work at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) Limited plant. Lokpobiri’s declaration fueled hopes that the refinery would indeed begin operations as anticipated.
In a communique issued at the conclusion of its caucus meeting in Akure, Afenifere addressed the prevailing economic situation in the country and emphasized the importance of adhering to the promised deadlines.
The group stressed that meeting the December deadline for the Port Harcourt Refinery’s resumption of production is crucial for alleviating the economic challenges currently faced by the nation.
The core belief of Afenifere lies in the potential impact of functional local refineries on the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
The group posits that the activation of these refineries could lead to a significant reduction in the cost of petroleum products, subsequently contributing to a decrease in the soaring prices of commodities and services across the country.
The communique from Afenifere reads, “The meeting also took note of the assurances being given in regard to the commencement of production of petroleum products by some Refineries in the country very soon.
It then urged the government to ensure that the deadlines given are adhered to. For instance, the December deadline given for Port Harcourt Refinery to resume production should be met.
This is with a view to bringing the cost of petroleum products down as high costs of these products are contributing to the soaring prices of commodities and services in the country.”
As the nation grapples with economic challenges, the effective operation of local refineries becomes a focal point for potential relief.
The eyes of both Afenifere and the public remain on President Bola Tinubu, expecting that his influence and commitment will play a pivotal role in meeting the December deadline and subsequently impacting the nation’s economic landscape.
The success of this endeavor holds the promise of not only realizing a functional local refinery but also contributing to the broader economic stability of Nigeria.
