Esther Salifu
Dangote Petroleum Refinery prepares for an ambitious expansion that will more than double its refining capacity from 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 1.4 million bpd a move expected to strengthen the country’s position in global energy production.
The announcement was made by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, during a world press conference in Lagos on Sunday. Describing the project as a milestone for Africa’s energy independence, Dangote revealed that the expansion would make the refinery the largest single-train refinery in the world, surpassing India’s Jamnagar facility.
“This marks a new chapter for Nigeria and for Africa’s industrial growth,”
“We are committed to creating jobs, producing cleaner fuel, and ensuring that our continent can compete globally.”Dangote said.
Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola, a close associate of Dangote, hailed the expansion as a generational investment that reflects faith in Nigeria’s future. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Otedola described Dangote as “Africa’s pride,” commending his “relentless commitment to investing in Nigeria and Africa.”
Otedola added that the project aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope agenda under President Bola Tinubu, who has encouraged private-sector initiatives to drive sustainable national growth.
“Soon, Nigerians will own part of this refinery,” “This vision is not just for Dangote, but for all Nigerians and Africans.” Otedola wrote.
Dangote disclosed that the upcoming construction phase will employ about 65,000 workers, with 85 percent of the workforce drawn from Nigeria, reinforcing the project’s local economic benefits.
The refinery’s power generation capacity is also expected to double from 500 megawatts to 1,000 megawatts boosting energy reliability for the facility and its surrounding industrial zones.
Upon completion, the refinery will produce Euro 6-grade fuel, a cleaner standard than the current Euro 5 specification, aligning with global environmental benchmarks.
In a move that reflects a shift toward inclusive capitalism, Dangote confirmed that the refinery will be listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange in 2026, allowing citizens to invest directly and benefit from its success.
“The refinery belongs to Africa, and it is only right that Africans have a stake in its growth,” he said.
Analysts say the expansion signals renewed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to lead Africa’s energy revolution. With the country still reliant on imported refined products, the project is expected to reduce import dependence, stabilize fuel prices, and contribute significantly to foreign exchange earnings.
If completed on schedule in three years, the refinery will not only redefine Nigeria’s oil industry but could also establish the country as a major global refining hub.
“The expansion is more than an industrial project,” said one Lagos-based economist. “It’s a declaration of intent that Nigeria can build, innovate, and lead at a global scale.”
