Despite earlier assurances from Dr. Mustafa Sugungun, Managing Director of the Kaduna Refining and Petrochemical Company (KRPC), that the $741 million rehabilitation project would be completed by the end of 2024, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has stated it cannot commit to a specific timeline.
The project, awarded to South Korea’s Daewoo Engineering & Construction, aims to restore the refinery’s 110,000-barrel-per-day capacity to at least 60% operational efficiency.
During the commissioning of a renovated Rido Community Primary School and a solar-powered borehole in Maraban Rido, Kaduna State, Dr. Sugungun reiterated NNPCL’s commitment to supporting host communities through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives but did not confirm whether the 2024 deadline remains achievable.
Dormant for years, the Kaduna refinery is a critical part of Nigeria’s strategy to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products. Represented by KRPC Operations Manager Emmanuel Ajiboye, Dr. Sugungun highlighted the anticipated economic and social benefits of the project, including job creation, support for local businesses, and boosting petty trade activities.
Ajiboye also underscored the significance of CSR projects like the school renovation and borehole, aimed at improving education and addressing water scarcity in the community. He called on the Rido community to support the Quick Fix Project, emphasizing its potential to enhance ties between KRPC and its host communities.
NNPCL spokesperson Femi Soneye addressed reports that staff had indicated December 2024 as the completion date, clarifying:
“The project is progressing steadily within the agreed scope of work. However, the final completion date depends on the successful execution of this scope and any additional work identified during third-party inspections of critical equipment. A definitive timeline will be announced once determined.”
The Quick Fix Project’s success is expected to provide significant economic and developmental gains for both the refinery and surrounding communities.
