NSE Team Tours Azikel Refinery, President Explains Delayed Take-off

Members of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Bayelsa State Branch, lauded the Azikel Refinery as a world-class engineering feat poised to accelerate industrialization and economic development in the state. During a tour of the facility, NSE Chairman Mac Jokori affirmed that the refinery adheres to the highest engineering standards, marking a significant advancement for Nigeria's refining sector.

Jokori described the refinery, nearing completion, as capable of processing both condensate and crude oil. He emphasized its role beyond commercial value, envisioning it as an engine for industrial growth, technology transfer, and local capacity building. The project is already providing economic opportunities, employing over 700 engineers and personnel during its final stages. The NSE pledged technical collaboration, mentorship, and research partnerships to uphold engineering standards, operational safety, environmental responsibility, and local content development.

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As engineers, we recognise that a refinery of this scale is more than a commercial venture. It is an engine of industrialisation, a catalyst for local capacity building, and a pathway to sustainable development for our youths.

Azikel Group President Dr. Azibapu Eruani attributed the project's extended construction period to deliberate engineering enhancements and the complexity of building a full hydro-skimming refinery. He stated that the refinery, initially licensed in 2015, has undergone extensive value engineering and redesign, boosting its processing capacity to 25,000 barrels per day and elevating the total investment to approximately $1 billion. Eruani noted the facility's capability to produce Premium Motor Spirit, diesel, aviation fuel, kerosene, and liquefied petroleum gas, with future plans for expansion to 125,000 barrels per day.

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The Azikel Refinery licensed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 has now gone through several enhanced value engineering and redesign to a 25,000 barrels per day capacity. It is now a $1 billion investment.