Dangote Refinery has announced plans to increase its production capacity from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day. This expansion will make the facility the largest refinery in the world, surpassing India’s Jamnagar Refinery. The move reflects confidence in Nigeria’s future and aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of making the country a global supplier of refined petroleum products.
According to Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, the expansion is a testament to the company’s confidence in Nigeria and Africa’s energy future. The project is expected to generate 65,000 jobs during the construction phase and create new opportunities for local industries. In addition to refining crude oil, the project will boost polypropylene production and produce Euro VI-standard fuels, meeting the world’s highest environmental and emission standards.
The refinery’s production increase is also expected to reduce petrol importation in Nigeria and boost domestic supply. The facility, which was inaugurated in May 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, started production in January 2024 and has been supplying local and international petroleum markets with its products. Dangote commended the Federal Government for its support and policies that have spurred industrial growth, including the Naira-for-Crude Policy and One-Stop Shop Initiative.
The expansion project will also increase power generation capacity, ensuring operational self-sufficiency. The refinery’s products will include base oils and linear alkylbenzene, a key ingredient for detergents. Dangote assured Nigerians of an uninterrupted petrol supply during the year-end festive period, despite recent fluctuations in global oil prices. The refinery is fully prepared to maintain consistent product flow and stable prices throughout the ember months.
The Dangote Refinery’s expansion is a significant development for Nigeria’s economy and the global energy market. The project’s completion will reinforce the country’s position as a major player in the refining and supply of petroleum products. With the refinery’s increased production capacity, Nigerians can look forward to a festive season free of fuel anxiety, marking a significant improvement in the country’s energy landscape.