The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) is under intense scrutiny following the failure of its $897 million rehabilitation project for the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC).
Despite the substantial investment, the refinery has remained non-operational since January 25, 2025, due to safety concerns in its Crude Distillation Unit (CDU) Main Heater.
Initially declared operational in December 2024, the 125,000 barrels-per-day facility ceased operations shortly after, without producing any Premium Motor Spirit (petrol).
This abrupt shutdown has raised questions about the transparency and efficiency of NNPCL’s management of refinery projects.
Industry experts have criticised the NNPCL for its handling of the rehabilitation, highlighting the lack of tangible results despite significant financial outlays.
Concerns have been amplified by reports from the Auditor-General of the Federation, which indicate that over ₦825 billion and $2.5 billion allocated for refinery repairs and oil revenues remain unaccounted for.
The situation has prompted calls from civil society organisations, such as the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP), for anti-corruption agencies to investigate the discrepancies and ensure accountability.
