The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC Ltd) says it is focused on three key elements to get the country’s refineries fully operational: financing, a competent EPC contractor, and world-class operational capacity. The Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, made this known during a fireside chat at the ongoing Nigeria International Energy Summit in Abuja.

Ojulari revealed that NNPC is engaging with partners who have a strong track record in refining and petrochemical operations. The goal is to develop sustainable, self-financing, and profitable solutions for Nigeria’s refineries. He noted that while previous efforts focused mainly on financing and EPC delivery, the current approach prioritizes operational models to ensure long-term sustainability.

The GCEO added that NNPC Ltd is now better positioned for commercial success and sustained profitability, supported by ongoing transformation efforts aimed at securing Nigeria’s energy future. He highlighted that gains in reducing crude oil theft have resulted from improved collaboration with upstream operators and a fundamentally different engagement model that promotes win-win outcomes in production and contracting.

Ojulari also praised the Federal Government’s decisive intervention in mitigating security challenges in the Niger Delta. Measures such as AI-enabled surveillance and targeted Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives have helped stabilize operations, maintain consistent production, and strengthen collaboration with host communities.