NNPC Partners Chinese Firms to Revive Warri, Port Harcourt Refineries
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) has taken a major step toward reviving the country’s refining sector by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with two Chinese firms—Sanjiang Chemical Company Limited and Xingcheng (Fuzhou) Industrial Park Operation and Management Co. Ltd. The agreement, signed on April 30, 2026, in Jiaxing City, China, outlines a proposed Technical Equity Partnership (TEP) aimed at completing, restarting, and efficiently operating the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries. The deal was formalized by NNPC’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, alongside Sanjiang Chairman Guan Jianzhong and Xingcheng Chairman Bill Bi. Under the proposed framework, the partnership will focus on completing outstanding rehabilitation work, as well as managing and maintaining the facilities to meet global performance standards. It also includes plans for upgrading the refineries to produce cleaner and more commercially viable petroleum products. Beyond refining, the collaboration is expected to expand petrochemical production and unlock opportunities in gas development. This includes the establishment of integrated industrial hubs built around gas-based industries. Speaking after the signing, Ojulari described the MoU as a key milestone following over six months of engagement between NNPC and its prospective partners. He noted that all parties are aligned on the long-term goal of ensuring sustainable profitability for Nigeria’s refining assets. He added that while the agreement signals strong intent, further negotiations and regulatory approvals will be required before final commitments are made. The development underscores NNPC’s ongoing efforts to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on fuel imports and strengthen its downstream petroleum sector through strategic international partnerships.
