The Federal Government announced on Thursday that the Port-Harcourt Refinery is set to commence operations, producing two million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and 2.2 million litres of diesel per day. The refinery is reported to be at 80% completion, with the old plant expected to generate 54,000 barrels per day, while the new plant, nearing completion, is projected to begin production by the end of the year. The combined capacity of both plants is anticipated to yield 10 million litres of PMS daily.
The Minister of State, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, made these statements after an inspection tour of the facility alongside organized labor leaders. The visit was part of the 16-point agreements between the Federal Government and organized labor last year.
During the inspection, Minister Onyejeocha noted that the government is open to dialogue with organized labor and other stakeholders to achieve peace and harmony in the sector. She appealed to union leaders to consider strike actions as a last resort, as constant threats could send negative signals to potential investors.
The statement also highlighted a meeting between the Federal Government and the Trade Union Congress to review progress on agreements reached in October 2023. The minister discussed various aspects of the agreements, including wage awards, minimum wage review, outstanding salaries for tertiary education workers, suspension of VAT on diesel, and the payment of conditional cash transfers.
The Trade Union Congress, led by Secretary General Nuhu Toro, commended the government for progress in implementing a substantial part of the agreement but expressed concerns over unresolved issues, particularly in the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). Toro suggested that the government had achieved only 50% implementation, while the minister disagreed, stating that 50% is a pass mark and expressed optimism in addressing challenges for further progress.
