The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Bayo Ojulari, has lauded the Dangote Refinery as a “world-class facility” following an on-site inspection. His comments, made after a tour hosted by refinery owner Aliko Dangote, underscore the project’s scale, technological sophistication, and operational success.
During the Saturday visit, Ojulari toured key sections including the master control room. He urged Nigerians to recognize the leadership and ambition behind the $20 billion project, noting the significant “audacity” required to undertake such a massive industrial endeavor. “Nigerians should be grateful for the leadership and the inspiration of Alhaji Aliko Dangote and the Dangote Group,” he stated.
Ojulari, drawing on his engineering expertise, said firsthand observation alleviated prior industry questions about the refinery’s single-train design. He explained that the plant’s architecture and built-in redundancies ensure high operational availability despite the configuration. He characterized the facility as representing the “frontline of world-class technology,” integrating advanced digital systems, artificial intelligence, and mechanical engineering that adhere to global best practices.
Performance indicators, he revealed, have exceeded expectations. “This plant has now been tested to its full capacity, above its full capacity,” Ojulari said, observing live operational parameters. He emphasized national pride, adding, “Every Nigerian should be proud that such an edifice is actually in Nigeria.”
The discussions also covered future expansion. Ojulari confirmed plans to double the refinery’s capacity by replicating existing infrastructure, a strategy that will leverage common facilities to reduce capital expenditure. He reiterated NNPCL’s stance as a shareholder in the venture and expressed optimism about the refinery’s long-term impact on Nigeria’s energy security and economy.
The visit and endorsement from Nigeria’s state oil company head signal a deepening strategic alignment with the Dangote Refinery, which is poised to transform the country from a fuel importer to a regional energy hub. The facility’s successful ramp-up and planned expansion are set to play a pivotal role in stabilizing domestic fuel supply and fostering industrial growth.
