In a move to bolster economic development and tap into the region’s abundant petroleum and mineral resources, Abia State is gearing up for the establishment of a groundbreaking modular refinery within the Abia Industrial Innovation Park.
Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information and Culture in Abia State, announced on Tuesday that the refinery is slated to commence full-scale operations by 2025.
During a press briefing at the Government House in Umuahia, Mr. Kanu highlighted the pivotal role of the refinery in creating employment opportunities and enhancing the state’s revenue base. The project is expected to generate 2,000 direct jobs and numerous indirect employment opportunities, particularly for the youth in Abia.
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“The project will help to provide refined products for the people of Abia as well as increase our revenue base as a state,” stated Mr. Kanu. “So, it is a project that is very important to this government, and every effort is being put in place to ensure that the date is met.”
The Commissioner for Petroleum and Mineral, Joel Ogbonna, echoed this sentiment, noting that the establishment of the industrial park reflects the government’s commitment to transforming the state. Mr. Ogbonna also highlighted the government’s intention to explore the entire value chain of petroleum, capitalizing on Abia’s over 17 solid minerals for economic benefit.
The modular refinery is expected to attract substantial investment, with Mr. Kanu revealing that numerous investors have expressed keen interest in setting up ventures in Abia, particularly in the petroleum sector. This influx of investments is seen as a crucial catalyst for addressing youth unemployment and driving overall economic growth in the state.
The announcement of Abia’s modular refinery comes in the wake of a growing trend in refinery projects across Nigeria. The Dangote Refinery which commenced operation earlier this month, spearheaded by Africa’s richest man Aliko Dangote, stands as a flagship project, expected to make significant contributions to the national economy, job creation, and energy production.
Additionally, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) operates several refineries across the country, playing a vital role in the nation’s oil and gas sector despite operational challenges. Abia State is positioning itself as a key player in the evolution of Nigeria’s refinery industry with the
Abia Industrial Innovation Park’s modular refinery. With a focus on sustainable economic growth, job creation, and harnessing natural resources, the state is poised for a transformative journey that aligns with the broader goals of the nation’s petroleum sector.
The modular refinery is expected to be a cornerstone in Abia’s economic revitalization, promising a brighter future for the state and its residents.
Please when did Abia secure license to establish a modular refinery of what capacity and configuration. Who is the contractor. Still more explanations needed
No doubt a high level project but my concern is the commencement of operations in 2025, I hope the industry or rather refinery is going to stand the test of time. Another fear I have is ongoing maintenance, the Nigerian system naturally abhors maintenance culture hence the sustainance of this project. I have many more concerns but let’s deal with these ones first