Africa’s largest refinery, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, is preparing for a significant expansion that will increase its production capacity from 650,000 barrels per day (BPD) to 1.4 million BPD over the next three years.
Once completed, this expansion will position the refinery as the largest globally, representing a substantial step towards energy independence for both Nigeria and the African continent.
Aliko Dangote, the President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Ltd., announced the plans on Sunday in Lagos.
He stated that this initiative reflects confidence in Nigeria’s potential.
Mr Dangote remarked, “This expansion demonstrates our faith in Nigeria’s future, our belief in Africa’s potential, and our commitment to fostering energy independence for our continent and the world. It signifies confidence in Nigeria, in Africa, and in our ability to shape our own energy future.”
He further explained that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of positioning Nigeria as a global supplier of petroleum products.
Mr Dangote praised the President for his supportive initiatives, including the Nigeria First Policy, the Naira-for-Crude Policy, and the establishment of a one-stop shop for investors, which have catalysed industrial growth and bolstered investor confidence.
He noted that the expansion would cater to the increasing regional demand, reduce reliance on fuel imports, save billions in foreign exchange, and enhance Nigeria’s energy security.
Mr Dangote revealed that the construction of the new facilities would create over 65,000 jobs, fostering opportunities across local industries and enhancing Africa’s technical capacity for large-scale infrastructure projects.
Additionally, he announced plans to ramp up polypropylene production from 900,000 metric tonnes to 2.4 million metric tonnes per annum, thereby increasing the local supply of industrial inputs such as linear alkylbenzene for detergent production and base oils.
He added, “With this expansion, the refinery will shift from producing Euro V to Euro VI fuel standards, aligning with the highest global environmental benchmarks. It will also enhance our power generation capacity, ensuring complete operational self-sufficiency.”
Mr Dangote indicated that more than 85 per cent of the refinery’s workforce comprises Nigerians, with ongoing investments in skills development, safety, sustainability, and technology transfer.
“We remain dedicated to safety, sustainability, and local participation at every stage of this expansion. Our ambition has never been solely to refine oil, but to refine opportunities for our people,” he stated.
He also announced plans to list the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Complex on the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. within the next year, aiming to promote broad ownership and transparency.
“Our long-term vision is to establish Africa’s leading integrated energy and petrochemical hub, the first of its kind on the continent,” he said.
Furthermore, Mr Dangote reassured Nigerians of a steady fuel supply during the festive period, despite recent global oil price increases.
“As we approach the end of the year, Nigerians typically face fuel shortages and price hikes. I want to assure everyone that the Dangote Refinery is fully committed to ensuring uninterrupted supply throughout the festive season.
“For the first time in many years, Nigerians can anticipate a festive season free from fuel anxiety,” he explained.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the federal and Lagos State Governments, the refinery’s host community in Lekki, financial partners, and the dedicated workforce of the company for their support.
“This expansion is not merely about increasing capacity; it’s about confidence in our people, our country, and our continent. Together, we are building a stronger Nigeria and redefining what is possible for Africa,” he asserted.
Mr Dangote also urged other refinery licence holders to collaborate in achieving the government’s objective of making Nigeria Africa’s refining hub.
“When Africa builds its own capacity, it shapes its own destiny,” he concluded.
(NAN)
