Africa’s largest refinery, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, is set for a historic expansion that will increase its production capacity from 650,000 barrels per day (BPD) to 1.4 million BPD within the next three years.

When completed, the expansion will make the refinery the largest in the world, marking a major leap toward energy independence for Nigeria and Africa.

The President and Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Ltd., Alhaji Aliko Dangote, announced the plan on Sunday in Lagos.

According to him, the step reflects faith in Nigeria’s potential.

“This expansion reflects our confidence in Nigeria’s future, our belief in Africa’s potential, and our commitment to building energy independence for our continent and the world.

“It is about confidence in Nigeria, in Africa, and in our capacity to shape our own energy future,” Dangote noted.

Dangote explained that the project aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of making Nigeria a global supplier of petroleum products.

He commended the President for supportive initiatives such as the Nigeria First Policy, Naira-for-Crude Policy, and the creation of a one-stop shop for investors, which have spurred industrial growth and strengthened investor confidence.

Dangote said the expansion would meet rising regional demand, cut dependence on fuel imports, save billions in foreign exchange, and boost Nigeria’s energy security.

He revealed that the construction of the new facilities would employ over 65,000 workers, creating opportunities across local industries and building Africa’s technical capacity for large-scale infrastructure.

The business mogul also disclosed plans to increase polypropylene production from 900,000 metric tonnes to 2.4 million metric tonnes per annum, boosting local supply of industrial inputs such as linear alkylbenzene, for detergent production, and base oils.

“With this expansion, the refinery will transition from producing Euro V to Euro VI fuel standards, meeting the highest global environmental benchmarks.

“It will also expand our power generation capacity, ensuring full operational self-sufficiency.”

He said more than 85 per cent of the refinery’s workforce are Nigerians, with ongoing investments in skills development, safety, sustainability, and technology transfer.

“We remain committed to safety, sustainability, and local participation at every stage of this expansion.

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

Dangote also announced plans to list the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Complex on the Nigerian Exchange Ltd. within the next year, a move aimed at promoting broad ownership and transparency.

“Our long-term goal is to build Africa’s leading integrated energy and petrochemical hub, the first of its kind on the continent,” he said.

Dangote also assured Nigerians of steady fuel supply during the festive period, in spite of of the recent global oil price increases.

“As we approach the end of the year, Nigerians often face fuel shortages and price hikes.

“I want to assure everyone that the Dangote Refinery is fully committed to maintaining uninterrupted supply throughout the festive season.

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

He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu, the Federal and Lagos State Governments, the refinery’s host community in Lekki, financial partners, and the company’s dedicated workforce for their support.

“This expansion is not just about increasing capacity, it’s about confidence in our people, our country, and our continent.

“Together, we are building a stronger Nigeria and redefining what is possible for Africa,” he said.

Dangote also urged other refinery license holders to collaborate in achieving the government’s goal of making Nigeria Africa’s refining hub.

“When Africa builds its own capacity, it builds its own destiny,” he said. (NAN)