The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with two Chinese companies to advance the completion and long-term operation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.
The agreement, signed on April 30, 2026, in Jiaxing City, China, involves a proposed Technical Equity Partnership with Sanjiang Chemical Company and Xinganchen (Fuzhou) Industrial Park Operation and Management Co Ltd.
NNPCL’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, signed the agreement alongside Sanjiang Chairman Guan Jianzhong and Xinganchen Chairman Bill Bi.
Deal Targets Completion, Operation, and Expansion
According to the company, the proposed framework will address outstanding work on the refineries while also covering their operation and maintenance to ensure improved and sustainable performance.
The partnership is expected to include expansion and upgrade plans aimed at improving product quality, boosting profitability, and aligning refinery operations with cleaner fuel standards.
In a statement issued by Andy Odeh, NNPCL said the MoU reflects a shared commitment to continue discussions, with final agreements subject to regulatory approvals.
More Opportunities in Petrochemicals and Gas Development
Beyond refining, the potential partnership is expected to explore opportunities in petrochemical production and the development of gas-based industrial hubs around the refinery locations.
Ojulari described the agreement as a milestone after months of engagement, noting that it could support the long-term sustainability and profitability of Nigeria’s refining assets.
NNPCL emphasized that the MoU is non-binding and represents an initial step toward identifying suitable technical partners for the rehabilitation, restart, and expansion of the country’s state-owned refineries.
