The House of Representatives in Nigeria has initiated a new investigation into the $18 billion spent on the country’s state-owned refineries, which remain non-functional. The probe, led by the House Committee on Petroleum Resources (Downstream), aims to uncover why these facilities, located in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, have failed to deliver despite significant investments since 1999.
The committee, chaired by Hon. Oboku Oforji, is tasked with examining the expenditure and ongoing rehabilitation efforts. It will assess the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and investigate claims of “gross inefficiencies” and “potential mismanagement” in the handling of funds. The investigation will also scrutinize the performance of contractors involved in the refineries’ rehabilitation, focusing on the Port Harcourt Refining Company, which has received substantial funding yet remains inoperative.
Hon. Oforji emphasized the need for transparency, stating, “The refineries have gulped huge sums with no tangible results.” He assured that the committee would conduct a thorough review to ensure accountability and prevent further financial waste. The probe will cover contracts awarded, funds disbursed, and the current state of the refineries, which have been described as “moribund” despite billions spent on repairs and upgrades.
The investigation comes amid public frustration over Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products, despite being a major oil producer. The refineries’ failure has strained the economy, contributing to fuel scarcity and high prices. The committee plans to engage stakeholders, including NNPCL officials, contractors, and industry experts, to gather comprehensive insights.
This probe is part of a broader effort to address systemic issues in Nigeria’s oil sector. The committee has promised to deliver a detailed report with recommendations to ensure the refineries become operational and contribute to energy self-sufficiency. Nigerians await the outcome, hoping for reforms that will revive the refineries and reduce dependence on imports.
