Government says locally built facility will curb oil theft, expand refining capacity, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy security…
The Federal Government has thrown its full support behind the Ebenco Global Link Limited modular refinery under construction in Koko, Delta State, describing it as a major milestone in the country’s push to combat crude oil theft, illegal refining, and persistent shortfalls in domestic fuel supply.
Ebenco is currently developing a 30,000-barrel-per-day modular refinery, which authorities say stands out as one of the most impactful indigenous refining ventures Nigeria has seen in decades. The facility designed and fabricated entirely within the country is expected to significantly boost local processing capacity, ease fuel scarcity, and enhance national energy security once completed.
Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, gave the endorsement during an inspection visit to the project site. He said the refinery aligns with the Federal Government’s ongoing petroleum sector reforms under the Renewed Hope agenda, adding that its progress reflects growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s indigenous energy infrastructure.
Lokpobiri emphasized that modular refineries, when backed by sound governance and local manufacturing, offer a strategic solution to recurring issues such as pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering. By creating legitimate and scalable refining alternatives, he said, the government can reduce incentives for illegal operations in the oil value chain.
Ebenco’s Chief Executive Officer, Ebenezer Oluwagbemiga, noted that the refinery will commence operations in phases, beginning with 5,000 barrels per day and gradually ramping up to full capacity. He said the project is poised to create jobs, deepen local content participation, and weaken the economic drivers behind illegal refining once fully operational.
Management consultant Peter Akindeju described the modular setup as a major feat in indigenous engineering, offering greater production flexibility and faster deployment timelines. He called on the Federal Government to grant the project pioneer status, given its national importance to refining expansion, employment generation, and energy security.
Also speaking, Omonigho, an associate professor at the Federal University of Petroleum Resources (FUPRE), praised the investment as a landmark advancement toward industrial self-reliance. He said the project demonstrates Nigeria’s growing capacity to design and construct sophisticated midstream and downstream assets.
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