The initial purpose of the port was to export coal that arrived in large quantities from the mining town of Enugu to the north via the Bonny River along which the port sits. It has a population of 1,133,400 (as of 2004). Business related to the petroleum industry is conducted here. Port Harcourt is the chief oil-refining city in Nigeria, oil being one of Nigeria's most important commodities and main foreign exchange earner. There is also a fishing industry and a fish market.

Attractions in the city include a museum. The city is also a transport hub with an International Airport, a railway line to Maiduguri and ferry/ferries to Nembe, Bonny Island and Brass Island.

The current governor is Dr Peter Odili of the Peoples Democratic Party, who won the election for a second term in 2003.

Port Harcourt is also one of the centres for strong Pentecostal Christian growth in the region and is host to several large churches such as Royal House of Grace International Church and Abundant Life Evangel Mission headed by apostle Zilly Aggrey and apostle Eugene Ogu respectively.