Dangote Refinery Set for Expansion to Become World’s Largest

The Dangote Refinery is set to become the largest refinery in the world following a massive expansion that will more than double its current refining capacity, the President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, announced on Sunday in Lagos.

Speaking at a press conference, Dangote said the refinery’s output will increase from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day, surpassing India’s Jamnagar Refinery, which currently holds the top spot globally.

“We are more than doubling the barrels… to 1.4 million from 650,000,” Dangote said. “This will make it the largest refinery in the world. This expansion is about confidence in Nigeria, in Africa, and in our capacity to shape our own energy future.”

Dangote explained that the expansion aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision to position Nigeria as a global supplier of refined petroleum products. He praised the Federal Government for creating an enabling business environment through initiatives such as the Nigeria’s First Policy, Naira-for-Crude Policy, and the One-Stop Shop Initiative, which he said have spurred investment and growth in the downstream oil sector.

He also noted that government intervention helped resolve recent disruptions at the refinery, linked to union disputes and sabotage attempts.

The expansion project is expected to create about 65,000 jobs during its construction phase and boost opportunities across local industries.

In addition to refining crude oil, the upgraded facility will increase polypropylene production from 900,000 metric tonnes to 2.4 million metric tonnes per annum, and expand output of base oils and linear alkylbenzene, a key component used in detergents.

Dangote said the upgraded refinery will produce Euro VI-standard fuels, meeting the world’s highest environmental and emission benchmarks, while expanding its power generation capacity to ensure self-sufficiency.

“Our goal has never been just to refine oil, but to refine opportunities for our people,” he stated.

Assurance of Stable Fuel Supply

Addressing concerns about potential fuel shortages during the festive period, Dangote assured Nigerians that the refinery was fully equipped to maintain a steady petrol supply despite global price volatility.

“For the first time in many years, Nigerians can look forward to a festive season free of fuel anxiety,” he said.

A National Milestone

Commissioned in May 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Dangote Refinery began production in January 2024 after receiving six million barrels of crude oil.

Since commencing operations, the refinery has significantly boosted domestic fuel supply, reduced import dependence, and enhanced Nigeria’s position in both local and international petroleum markets.

Economists and industry analysts have described the expansion as a “game-changer” that could redefine Nigeria’s energy landscape and strengthen its role in the global oil economy.