The Port Harcourt refinery shutdown has sparked reactions from various stakeholders in the petroleum industry. Here's what's happening:

*Key Points:*

- *Shutdown Reason*: The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) announced a planned maintenance shutdown of the Port Harcourt Refining Company, citing safety and sustainability reasons. However, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) claims the refinery hasn't produced fuel in months and the shutdown is just to "save face".

- *Impact*: IPMAN believes the shutdown is insignificant to the Nigerian petrol market, as marketers have been buying petrol from Dangote refinery and others have resorted to importation. On the other hand, the Petroleum Products Retail Outlet Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) fears delays in the 30-day repair timeline may worsen economic hardship and fuel scarcity.

- *Concerns*:

- *Blending Unit*: PETROAN emphasizes the need for a Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) blending unit in the maintenance activity, as crude oil cracking is of no value without it.

- *Timely Completion*: PETROAN demands the NNPC complete the repair before existing stocks run dry to prevent market monopolization and ensure stable supply.

- *Transparency*: PETROAN recommends a task force to monitor the repairs and provide regular updates to ensure transparency and accountability.

*Stakeholder Reactions:*

- *IPMAN*: Claims the refinery hasn't produced fuel in months, and the shutdown is a face-saving measure.

- *PETROAN*: Expresses concerns over potential delays, fuel scarcity, and economic hardship.

- *NNPC*: Maintains the shutdown is for safety and sustainability reasons, and they're working to ensure efficiency and transparency ¹.