The Dangote Refinery has announced an ambitious expansion plan that will increase its production capacity from 650,000 barrels per day to a staggering 1.4 million barrels per day, positioning it as the largest refinery in the world once completed.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Sunday, President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said the expansion underscores his confidence in Nigeria’s future and aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision to make the nation a global hub for refined petroleum products.
“We are more than doubling production to 1.4 million barrels per day from 650,000. This will make it the largest refinery in the world, surpassing India’s Jamnagar Refinery,” Dangote stated.
He emphasized that the move reflects faith in Nigeria’s economic potential and Africa’s ability to shape its own energy destiny.
Dangote praised the Federal Government for its continued support and the implementation of strategic economic policies such as the Nigeria’s First Policy, Naira-for-Crude Policy, and the One-Stop Shop Initiative, noting that these measures have spurred industrial growth and encouraged private-sector investment in local refining.
He also acknowledged government intervention in resolving recent disruptions at the refinery, which he attributed to union activities and sabotage attempts.
According to him, the ongoing expansion project will create over 65,000 jobs during the construction phase and unlock new opportunities for local industries and service providers.
In addition to increasing crude refining capacity, the refinery will also boost polypropylene production from 900,000 metric tonnes to 2.4 million metric tonnes per annum, and expand the output of base oils and linear alkylbenzene, a key ingredient in detergent manufacturing.
Dangote further disclosed that the upgraded facility would produce Euro VI-standard fuels, meeting the world’s most stringent environmental and emission requirements. The refinery will also enhance power generation capacity to ensure full operational self-sufficiency.
“Our goal has never been just to refine oil, but to refine opportunities for our people,” he said.
Addressing concerns about possible fuel shortages during the upcoming festive season, Dangote assured Nigerians of uninterrupted petrol supply despite global oil market fluctuations.
“For the first time in many years, Nigerians can look forward to a festive season free of fuel anxiety,” he declared.
Commissioned in May 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Dangote Refinery has been widely described as a game-changer for Nigeria’s economy. Although inaugurated in 2023, production began in January 2024 following the delivery of six million barrels of crude oil.
Since commencing operations, the refinery has significantly improved domestic supply and reduced Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products, while also serving both local and international markets.
With the new expansion, the Dangote Refinery is set to redefine global energy production, reinforce Nigeria’s industrial strength, and usher in a new era of self-reliance in Africa’s oil and gas sector.
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