- Dangote refinery’s petrol exports hit 1.1 billion litres in three months, boosting domestic supply and foreign earnings.
- The project is set to create 24,000 jobs through the rollout of 4,000 CNG trucks.
Dangote refinery’s petrol exports have reached a record 1.1 billion litres within three months, signalling a turning point in Nigeria’s energy history. The achievement coincides with the refinery’s first anniversary of petrol production, underscoring its role in tackling long-standing fuel shortages.
Aliko Dangote, president and CEO of the refinery, confirmed the development at a Monday conference. He stressed that operations have ended almost fifty years of recurring fuel queues nationwide. He noted that since production began in September 2024, the refinery has consistently supplied the domestic market while boosting foreign exchange earnings through exports.
The Dangote refinery’s petrol exports highlight its dual capacity: meeting Nigeria’s energy demand and strengthening the national economy. According to Dangote, the project carried enormous risks, as failure could have meant asset seizures by lenders. Nonetheless, determination and belief in Nigeria drove the project forward despite warnings from sceptics.
Fuel prices have already shifted. Petrol that once sold for nearly ₦1,100 now retails at ₦841 in several states, including Abuja, Rivers, and Kwara. Dangote expressed optimism that prices would continue to fall as Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) trucks enter the market.
The refinery also promises significant job creation. With 4,000 CNG trucks rolling out, at least 24,000 jobs will follow. Workers benefit from competitive salaries, pensions, and insurance packages, while drivers earn living wages and secure lifetime benefits. Dangote stressed that no jobs have been lost; instead, many more are being created.
The capacity will expand to 700,000 barrels per day in the refinery’s second year. Plans are underway to position Nigeria as Africa’s refining hub, the largest global exporter of polypropylene, and a leading fertiliser producer.
Dangote urged stronger policies to protect Nigerian industries, warning that reliance on imports means exporting jobs and importing poverty. He added that while the refinery will not enter the retail market, it remains open to downstream partnerships.