…Urges focus on other public assets….
By Tony Ezike
In a move hailed as a groundbreaking achievement, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, has successfully revived the long-dormant Port Harcourt Refinery, signaling a turning point in Nigeria’s energy sector. Reacting to the development, Senator Uche Ekwunife has extended her heartfelt congratulations to the President, describing the milestone as a feat that previous administrations struggled to achieve despite the nation’s urgent energy needs.
In a statement released through her media team, Senator Ekwunife lauded President Tinubu for demonstrating visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to tackling one of Nigeria’s most critical challenges: reducing the country’s dependency on imported petroleum products. She noted that the operational revival of the refinery would boost local production, create jobs, and strengthen Nigeria’s economic standing, especially in the face of fluctuating global energy prices.
However, the Senator emphasized the importance of sustainability, calling on individuals, institutions, and all citizens entrusted with responsibilities to live up to expectations and justify the trust placed in them. “We cannot overstate the significance of this achievement. It is a clear demonstration of what leadership, determination, and accountability can accomplish when combined with a clear vision. I urge Nigerians in various spheres of life to emulate this level of dedication to national service,” Ekwunife remarked.
She also highlighted the need for the federal government to extend its attention to other moribund refineries and key public assets across the country, including the Warri and Kaduna refineries. According to her, ensuring that all strategic investments are fully functional would have a multiplier effect on the economy, fostering industrial growth and improving living standards.
“This success story must not end here. The rehabilitation of other refineries and strategic public investments should follow this path. These facilities are critical to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential and reducing our over-reliance on imports,” Senator Ekwunife stated.
Senator Ekwunife equally extended her heartfelt congratulations to the NNPC Limited’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mele Kyari, whose expertise, experience and commitment were pivotal to the successful revival of the Port Harcourt refinery.
The Port Harcourt Refinery, established in 1965, has suffered years of neglect, leaving Nigeria with the paradox of being one of the world’s leading crude oil producers but heavily dependent on imported refined products. With its revival under the Tinubu administration, hopes are high that the nation is now on the path to self-sufficiency in petroleum production.
Senator Ekwunife’s call serves as a rallying cry for proactive governance, accountability, and collaboration to ensure that the dividends of this accomplishment reach all Nigerians.
Her commendation reinforces the critical role of leadership in transforming national assets into engines of growth while inspiring a renewed sense of responsibility among public officials and institutions.
