Complete List Of Refineries In Nigeria & Their Locations: (Updated List)
Nigeria, as one of the largest oil-producing nations in the world, relies heavily on its refineries to process crude oil into refined petroleum products. These refineries play a crucial role in meeting domestic fuel demands and reducing dependence on imported petroleum products. In this blog post, we provide a detailed and updated list of all refineries in Nigeria, their locations, and their capacities.
Importance of Refineries in Nigeria
Refineries are critical to Nigeria’s economy. They contribute to energy security, generate employment, and boost industrial development. Despite being an oil-rich nation, Nigeria has faced challenges with its refineries, including underutilization and maintenance issues. However, efforts to modernize and expand refining capacities continue.
Complete List of Refineries in Nigeria
Below is the comprehensive list of refineries operating in Nigeria, including government-owned, privately-owned, and modular refineries:
Government-Owned Refineries
Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC)
- Location: Alesa-Eleme, Rivers State
- Capacity: 210,000 barrels per day (bpd)
- Details: Consists of two refineries (old and new) and is currently undergoing rehabilitation to improve efficiency.
Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company (WRPC)
- Location: Ekpan, Delta State
- Capacity: 125,000 bpd
- Details: Produces Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), kerosene, and automotive gas oil.
Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC)
- Location: Kaduna, Kaduna State
- Capacity: 110,000 bpd
- Details: Processes both light and heavy crude oils and produces a variety of refined products.
Privately-Owned Refineries
Dangote Refinery
- Location: Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos State
- Capacity: 650,000 bpd
- Details: The largest refinery in Africa, it commenced operations in 2023 and aims to significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported fuel.
Niger Delta Petroleum Resources Refinery
- Location: Ogbelle, Rivers State
- Capacity: 11,000 bpd
- Details: Focuses on producing diesel, kerosene, and heavy fuel oil.
Waltersmith Modular Refinery
- Location: Ibigwe, Imo State
- Capacity: 5,000 bpd (with plans for expansion to 50,000 bpd)
- Details: A modular refinery designed to serve local communities and provide refined products close to crude oil sources.
Bua Group Refinery
- Location: Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State
- Capacity: 200,000 bpd (expected completion by 2026)
- Details: Aiming to contribute significantly to domestic refining capacity.
Modular Refineries
Azikel Refinery
- Location: Yenagoa, Bayelsa State
- Capacity: 12,000 bpd
- Details: Focused on reducing the environmental impact of artisanal refining in the Niger Delta.
Atlantic Modular Refinery
- Location: Brass, Bayelsa State
- Capacity: 20,000 bpd (under construction)
- Details: Expected to address fuel shortages in the region upon completion.
Edo Modular Energy Refinery
- Location: Ologbo, Edo State
- Capacity: 6,000 bpd
- Details: A collaboration between the Edo State Government and private investors to boost local refining.
Challenges Facing Nigeria’s Refineries
Despite the significant number of refineries, Nigeria continues to face challenges in achieving self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products. These challenges include:
- Operational Inefficiency: Frequent shutdowns and underutilization of government-owned refineries.
- Pipeline Vandalism: Disruptions to crude oil supply due to vandalism.
- Funding Issues: Insufficient capital for maintenance and upgrading of existing facilities.
- Regulatory Hurdles: Bureaucratic delays affecting private refinery projects.
Efforts to Improve Refining Capacity
To address these challenges, the Nigerian government and private investors have implemented several measures:
- Rehabilitation Projects: Major refurbishments of government-owned refineries are underway.
- Incentives for Private Investment: Policies to encourage the establishment of modular refineries.
- Collaboration with International Partners: Technical and financial support from foreign companies.
Conclusion
The list of refineries in Nigeria underscores the country’s commitment to leveraging its crude oil resources for economic growth. While challenges persist, the addition of new refineries like the Dangote Refinery and modular plants across the country provides hope for a future where Nigeria achieves self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products. These efforts not only enhance energy security but also contribute to job creation and industrialization.
By keeping the refineries operational a
nd investing in new technologies, Nigeria can solidify its position as a major player in the global oil and gas industry.