The Anambra Government has intensified its industrialisation drive with renewed focus on boosting local petroleum refining through a proposed modular refinery and petrochemical project in Ogbaru Local Government Area.
The project is to be sited in Obeagwe and Ossomala communities.
It is designed to enhance domestic refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products.
The state government recently approved land acquisition for the project.
This signaled a strategic shift toward energy security and value addition within the state’s economy.
Modular Refinery with proposed capacity of 10,000 barrels per day
Speaking at a town hall meeting with stakeholders, Chairman, Anambra House of Assembly Committee on Petroleum and Energy Resources, Mr Chidiebele Ibemeka, described the refinery as a critical step toward local production of refined products.
Ibemeka, who represents Njikoka Constituency I, said the modular refinery, with a proposed capacity of 10,000 barrels per day, would provide a flexible and scalable solution to Nigeria’s refining challenges.
According to him, the project is being executed by Anambra Grand Afrique Refinery and Petrochemical Ltd. in partnership with the state government.
He said the initiative would not only reduce reliance on imported fuel but also create jobs, stimulate industrial growth and improve energy access within the state and beyond.
“Modular refineries are faster to deploy and more cost-effective, making them ideal for addressing supply gaps in refined petroleum products,” he said.
Ibemeka added that the project would unlock the economic potential of Ogbaru’s riverine communities while integrating them into the state’s industrial ecosystem.
He disclosed that plans were underway to construct a jetty to support logistics and ease transportation of crude and refined products.
The lawmaker urged residents to support the project and avoid actions that could delay its implementation, noting that timely execution would attract further investments.
He also commended the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Mr Somtochukwu Udeze, for his support toward the project.
Members of the technical team presented details of the refinery design, operations and environmental safeguards, assuring that the facility would comply with global standards.
They said compensation would be paid to affected residents ahead of site clearance expected to commence soon.
Community Welcomes Initiative
In their remarks, the traditional ruler of Ossomala, Igwe Chukwuewmeka Awogu and community leaders, including Chief Chukwuma Nnabuife and Chief Ambrose Ogene, as well as youth representatives, welcomed the initiative.
They described the modular refinery as a long-awaited development that would boost economic activities and improve livelihoods in the area.
