In a move set to redefine Africa’s energy landscape, Dangote Industries Limited has announced plans to expand the capacity of its flagship refinery from 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) to an unprecedented 1.4 million bpd, positioning it as the largest single-site refining complex in the world once completed.
Speaking during a press briefing in Lagos, President and Chief Executive Officer, Aliko Dangote, described the expansion as a transformative step for Nigeria’s industrial growth and energy independence. He revealed that the $20 billion project would be completed within three years, significantly scaling up production to meet both domestic and international demand.
According to Dangote, the expansion aligns with the company’s long-term vision to deepen Nigeria’s refining capacity, promote local participation, and strengthen the nation’s energy security. “This project is a testament to our confidence in Nigeria’s economic reforms and the resilience of its people,” he said. “We are building not only for today but for the next generation of Africans who will drive this continent’s growth.”
Dangote further disclosed that over 85% of the workforce engaged in the refinery’s expansion will be Nigerians, underscoring the company’s commitment to local content, skill development, and technology transfer. The initiative will also include structured training programs designed to equip young engineers and technicians with advanced industrial competencies.
Beyond refining, the new phase will boost polypropylene production, support downstream industries, and create thousands of additional jobs across the value chain. The expansion is expected to stimulate the manufacturing and small business sectors, while enhancing Nigeria’s export potential through value-added petroleum products.
Dangote projected that once fully operational, the refinery could generate annual revenues exceeding $55 billion, further solidifying its position as a major driver of Africa’s industrial diversification. He also confirmed plans to list part of the refinery on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), providing opportunities for broader public participation and ownership in what is fast becoming one of the continent’s most strategic energy assets.
Industry analysts have described the move as a bold endorsement of Nigeria’s renewed economic direction, emphasizing that increased refining capacity could reduce the nation’s dependence on fuel imports, stabilize domestic supply, and enhance foreign exchange earnings through refined product exports.
The Dangote Refinery, which commenced operations earlier this year, has already positioned Nigeria on the path toward self-sufficiency in refined petroleum products. With this planned expansion, Dangote Industries is not only raising the bar for industrial innovation but also reaffirming its role as a catalyst for sustainable economic transformation in Africa.
