Niger Delta youths, represented by the Niger Delta Youth Network (NDYN), are planning to protest in Abuja over the ongoing delays in the resumption of operations at the Port Harcourt refinery. Despite multiple promises from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the refinery has not begun fuel production, leading to growing frustration among the youth in the region.
The NDYN has voiced concerns that the repeated postponements, now totaling six, may indicate a broader scheme to exploit the region’s oil resources without benefiting local communities. They allege that the refinery is being considered for use as a blending facility rather than for local refining, which would involve importing fuel, mixing it with chemicals, and potentially harming the health of local residents.
In light of these issues, the youth group is demanding a clear timeline for the refinery’s operations, transparency regarding the reasons for the delays, and better communication from the NNPCL. They emphasize the need for the region to receive fair treatment and economic benefits from its natural resources.
