The Edo government and NNPCL say they will collaborate to establish a 10,000-barrels-per-day condensate refinery in the state. Governor Monday Okpebholo’s spokesman, Patrick Ebojele, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday.

Mr Ebojele stated that the refinery would be sited across Oredo and Orhionmwon LGAs. He added that the facility was slated for completion between 24 months and 36 months.

According to the Edo government, once operational, the refinery would produce approximately 20 truckloads of Premium Motor Spirit and 10 truckloads of diesel per day.

The statement added that the facility would serve Edo and the neighbouring states.

It further stated that the governor described the investment as a reflection of President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’.

The governor also promised that the refinery would create jobs, reduce poverty, and strengthen the state’s industrial base.

The statement added that Mr Okpbeholo, who received the NNPC’s executive vice-president (downstream), Mumuni Dagazia, and his team to the Government House, Benin, assured them of his administration’s full commitment to the success of the project.

“We are delighted to welcome this major investment to Edo. My administration is committed to creating jobs and reducing poverty, in line with the renewed hope agenda of the president,” the governor reportedly said.

The statement further reported that the Edo government would provide land, certificates of occupancy, security, and other necessary logistics to facilitate the execution of the project.

“We are committed to protecting investments and ensuring Edo remains safe for business. Our political will is fully behind this initiative,” Mr Okpebholo said.

Mr Dagazia described the proposed refinery as a sustainable project aimed not only at generating revenue but also at creating jobs, fostering industrial growth, and advancing the overall development of the state.

The chief downstream investment officer at NNPC, Ikedichi Dick-Nwoke, was also reported to have promised that upon completion, the refinery would position Edo as a major energy and industrial hub in the South-South region.

“He said the project would boost investor confidence, align with Governor Okpebholo’s industrialisation agenda, and significantly expand employment opportunities for Edo residents,” the statement added.

(NAN)