NNPC Implements New Measures To Boost Refinery Production And Efficiency At Kaduna, Warri Plants

The Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) is taking significant steps to enhance the production and efficiency of its Warri and Kaduna refineries. The global energy player has announced a comprehensive strategy that includes new maintenance protocols, stringent compliance measures, and the implementation of cutting-edge technology solutions.

Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer (CCCO) of NNPC Ltd, revealed that the company is initiating both short-term and long-term Operations and Maintenance (O&M) services contracts for the Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC) and Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC). This move is part of a broader set of sustainable and profit-driven measures being adopted by the firm.

The O&M contracts will cover an extensive range of operations, including:
• Long-term and short-term production/operations planning
• Production and operations execution
• Monitoring, reporting, and optimization of operations
• Maintenance planning (short term)
• Maintenance execution
• Reliability and inspection
• Process and control engineering
• Quality Control, Quality Assurance, and Laboratory
• Specialist engineering
• Health and Safety
• Environmental management
• Turnaround maintenance planning and execution
• Minor projects
• Non-hydrocarbon Procurement
• Sub-contractor management
• Inventory and warehouse management.

Soneye highlighted that a key objective of these services is to “ensure and guarantee steady and sustained refining production while adhering to the best maintenance and regulatory compliance ethics at the minimum cost of refining and production per barrels.”

The selection of O&M service providers will follow a rigorous three-stage tender process:
1. Expression of Interest
2. Technical and
3. Commercial

This structured approach aims to ensure that NNPC Ltd secures the most qualified and cost-effective partners for this critical initiative.

A significant aspect of the new strategy is the incorporation of advanced technology solutions. Soneye highlighted that the O&M contracts are expected to “improve on our refining process that guarantees quality through the application of the latest technology.” This includes the implementation of Computerised Maintenance Management Software (CMMS) and Warehousing Management System (WMS).

The scope of the O&M services will encompass all refining areas within the plants, covering a wide range of refined products. These include:
• Mixed LPG
• Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)
• Household Kerosene (HHK)
• Aviation Turbine Kerosene (ATK)
• Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)
• Low Pour Fuel Oil (LPFO)

These initiatives by NNPC Ltd represent a significant step towards boosting domestic refining capacity in Nigeria.

By focusing on sustained production, improved maintenance, and technological upgrades, the company aims to reduce the country’s dependence on imported refined products and strengthen its position in the global energy market.

The success of these measures could have far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s economy, potentially leading to increased energy security, job creation, and reduced foreign exchange expenditure on fuel imports.

As NNPC Ltd moves forward with these ambitious plans, stakeholders in Nigeria’s energy sector and the broader economy will be watching closely to see how these changes translate into improved refinery performance and increased domestic fuel supply.

Melissa Enoch

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