Dangote Refinery to Expand Capacity from 650,000 to 1.4 Million Barrels Per Day
The Dangote Refinery is set for a major expansion that will boost its capacity from 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 1.4 million bpd — a move that will make it the largest refinery in the world, 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 decision reflects strong confidence in Nigeria’s economic future and aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of positioning the country as a global supplier of refined petroleum products.
“We are more than doubling production to 1.4 million barrels per day from 650,000,” Dangote said. “This expansion demonstrates our confidence in Nigeria, in Africa, and in our capacity to shape our own energy future.”
Government Support and Policy Impact
Dangote commended the Federal Government for policies that have driven industrial growth, including the Nigeria’s First Policy, Naira-for-Crude Policy, and the One-Stop Shop Initiative. He said these initiatives have transformed the downstream sector and encouraged private investment in local refining.
ICYMI
He also acknowledged the government’s intervention in resolving recent disruptions at the refinery, which were linked to union disputes and sabotage attempts.
Jobs and Industrial Growth
According to Dangote, the expansion project will create about 65,000 jobs during construction and open up new opportunities for local industries.
The refinery’s output will also extend beyond crude oil, increasing polypropylene production from 900,000 to 2.4 million metric tonnes per year, and adding new products such as base oils and linear alkylbenzene, a key ingredient in detergents.
The upgraded facility will produce Euro VI-standard fuels, which meet the world’s highest environmental and emission standards. It will also enhance power generation capacity to ensure operational independence.
“Our goal has never been just to refine oil, but to refine opportunities for our people,” Dangote added.
‘No More Fuel Anxiety’
Addressing concerns over possible fuel shortages during the festive season, Dangote assured Nigerians of stable petrol supply and consistent prices despite fluctuations in global oil markets.
“For the first time in many years, Nigerians can look forward to a festive season free of fuel anxiety,” he said.
A Milestone for Nigeria’s Economy
The Dangote Refinery, inaugurated in May 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, began operations in January 2024 after receiving an initial six million barrels of crude oil.
Since then, the refinery has supplied both local and international markets, strengthening domestic fuel availability and reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported petrol.
With the upcoming expansion, the refinery is poised to become a global benchmark in large-scale refining and industrial innovation.
