The Dangote Refinery has unveiled plans to increase its production capacity from 650,000 to 1.4 million barrels of crude oil per day — a move that will position it as the largest refinery globally, surpassing India’s Jamnagar Refinery.
Announcing the development at a press conference in Lagos on Sunday, President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, said the expansion underscores the company’s faith in Nigeria’s economy and Africa’s energy future.
“We are more than doubling production capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day. This expansion reflects our confidence in Nigeria and in our ability to shape the continent’s energy landscape,” Dangote stated.
Dangote commended the Federal Government for creating an enabling environment for industrial growth, citing the Nigeria First Policy, the Naira-for-Crude initiative, and the One-Stop Shop Initiative as transformative interventions.
He also acknowledged government efforts in resolving recent disruptions at the refinery caused by union disputes and acts of sabotage, describing the response as “swift, firm, and confidence-restoring.”
According to him, the expansion project will create around 65,000 jobs during construction while boosting opportunities for local industries and service providers.
The refinery’s output will not be limited to fuel. The expansion will also increase polypropylene production from 900,000 metric tonnes to 2.4 million metric tonnes annually, alongside new capacities for base oils and linear alkylbenzene — essential materials in lubricants and detergents.
Addressing concerns about possible fuel shortages during the festive season, Dangote assured Nigerians of uninterrupted petrol supply despite global price fluctuations.
“For the first time in many years, Nigerians can look forward to a festive season without fuel scarcity,” he said.
The planned upgrade marks a significant milestone for Nigeria’s industrial and energy sectors. With the expanded capacity, the country is expected to meet domestic fuel needs and become a key exporter of refined petroleum products across Africa and beyond.
The project could also save the nation billions in foreign exchange by reducing dependence on imported fuel, strengthen the naira, and spur industrial growth through local production of essential raw materials.
