MON JAN 26 2026-theGBJournal| Gbite Falade, MD/CEO of Aradel Holdings Plc has revealed that the next phase of its 11,000 barrels-per-day facility in Ogbele, Rivers State is the construction of an additional 10,000bpd Train 4 bringing the total refining capacity of the refinery to 21,000bpd.
Falade gave the revelation when the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) officials led by its Chief Executive, Engr. Saidu Aliyu Mohammed, led a delegation to assess operational performance, infrastructure readiness, and regulatory compliance at the facility on Monday.
Falade also highlighted the company’s strategic investments and progress in boosting domestic refining capacity and supporting Nigeria’s drive for energy security and reduced dependence on imported petroleum products.
The expansion plan is also viewed by analysts as a strategic move, one that reflects Nigeria’s broader push to refine more of its crude locally and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
From a national perspective, the Ogbele expansion fits neatly into a larger Nigeria’s refining ambitions which have gained urgency amid volatile global markets and foreign exchange pressures.
Every additional barrel refined locally represents potential savings, improved energy security, and a step toward stabilizing fuel supply.
Meanwhile, the NMDPRA reaffirmed Authority’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s local refining capacity, calling for more private sector investment in the sector.
During the visit, NMDPRA officials engaged with Aradel’s management on operational standards, crude supply arrangements, and compliance with health, safety, environmental, and technical requirements.
The Authority reiterated its support for safe, efficient, and sustainable refinery operations, emphasising sustained regulatory engagement as a critical pillar for advancing national midstream and downstream objectives and promoting a resilient, competitive petroleum sector.
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