It is the last day of February 2024, and the Nigerian government has yet to tell us when the commercial production of refined products at the Port-Harcourt refinery will begin.

Development Diaries reports that the latest from the federal government on the refinery is that the refinery is at 80 percent completion.

According to a statement issued by the Minister of State Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the production of premium motor spirit (PMS) will commence before the end of the year.

Recall that the government announced in December 2023 the ‘mechanical completion’ of the refinery, and to date, we have yet to know when the completion will be done and the exact date production of crude will commence.

When the government is not transparent in its communication, it typically suggests a lack of accountability.

Clear communication is absent, which indicates a lack of accountability within the government or the relevant agencies responsible for managing the refinery.

This greatly contributes to citizens’ distrust in government. Is there any form of mismanagement or inefficiency within the refinery operations? Are there any problems or delays in getting the refinery operational? We need to know.

The Port Harcourt refinery is crucial for Nigeria’s economy, as it plays a significant role in the country’s oil production and refining capacity and in making sure that petroleum products are available for domestic consumption.

Overall, the failure of the Nigerian government to be transparent in its communication about the Port Harcourt refinery undermines trust, transparency, and accountability.

Development Diaries calls on the Minister of State Petroleum (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, to provide clarity on when the refinery would begin crude production.

Photo source: NNPC Group