- The expansion of Dangote Refinery will raise output from 650,000 to 1.4 million barrels daily.
- The project will create 65,000 jobs and promote Nigeria’s energy independence.
Significant Boost for Nigeria’s Energy Ambitions
Africa’s largest Dangote Refinery is embarking on an ambitious expansion that will double its production capacity. The expansion aims to raise daily output from 650,000 to 1.4 million barrels within three years. Once completed, it will rank as the world’s largest refinery and the cornerstone of Nigeria’s energy independence drive.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, said the expansion reflects strong confidence in Nigeria’s economy and Africa’s industrial potential. He added that it demonstrates the company’s long-term commitment to self-reliance and sustainable growth.
Alignment with National Energy Goals
According to Dangote, the expansion aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to make Nigeria a key global supplier of refined petroleum products. He praised the Nigeria First Policy, the Naira-for-Crude initiative, and the One-Stop Investor Shop. These, he explained, have boosted investor confidence and attracted significant private investment.
The project will enable Nigeria to meet growing domestic fuel demand while reducing import dependence. It will also save billions in foreign exchange, improve energy security, and generate more than 65,000 jobs across multiple sectors. Consequently, the expansion will stimulate regional trade and strengthen local industries.
Technological and Environmental Advancements
Dangote revealed plans to raise polypropylene production from 900,000 to 2.4 million metric tonnes annually. This increase will enhance the local supply of key materials such as base oils and linear alkylbenzene, which are essential for the detergent and manufacturing industries.
In addition, the refinery will upgrade to Euro VI fuel standards to meet global environmental requirements. Its power generation capacity will also grow, ensuring reliability and complete operational independence.
Building Human Capacity and Promoting Transparency
More than 85% of the refinery’s workforce is Nigerian, reflecting its strong commitment to local empowerment. Dangote noted continuous training, safety, and technology transfer investment to build a skilled workforce. The company’s vision, he said, goes beyond refining oil; it aims to refine opportunities and deepen national prosperity.
Dangote announced plans to list the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Complex on the Nigerian Exchange within one year to promote transparency. The move will encourage shared ownership and increase public accountability.
Commitment to a Stable Fuel Supply
As the festive season approaches, Dangote assured Nigerians of a steady fuel supply despite global price volatility. He thanked President Tinubu, the Lagos State Government, the Lekki host community, and financial partners for their continued support.
Finally, he urged other refinery licence holders to invest in expanding Nigeria’s refining capacity. He concluded that when Africa builds its capacity, it ultimately builds its destiny.