Africa’s largest industrial project is set to scale further. Aliko Dangote announced plans to expand the Dangote Refinery to a production capacity of 1.4 million barrels per day. This ambitious move is expected to generate up to 95,000 skilled jobs at peak construction.
Also, Dangote revealed this in Lagos during his induction as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering. Also, he framed the expansion as a significant step in Nigeria’s industrialisation drive.
“This award is particularly meaningful because it recognises what we are doing in the industry,” he said, adding that the project would employ “about 95,000 skilled workers on site” at its peak.
Dangote Refinery to Become World’s Largest Once Expansion is Complete
Upon completion , the upgraded facility is projected to surpass India’s Jamnagar Refinery and become the world’s largest refinery by capacity. Furthermore, the development is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s domestic refining capability. It will cut significanttly reliance on imported fuel and ease pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
Dangote revealed that the expansion would rely heavily on local expertise. It will create opportunities for engineers, technicians, and artisans. Also, it will drive technology transfer and supporting the broader oil and gas value chain.
“The scale of this expansion reflects our confidence in Nigerian capacity and our belief that Africa can build world-class infrastructure,” he said.
Additionally, industry observers noted that the refinery alongside others such as Warri Refinery have already been positioned as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s efforts to become a net exporter of refined petroleum products. It boasts potential spillover effects across manufacturing and logistics.
Dangote Group Urged to Invest More in Nasarawa State
On the other hand and in a separate development, Abdullahi Sule called on the Dangote Group to deepen its investments in Nasarawa State. He cited its untapped mineral resources.
Additionally, speaking at the Nasarawa Trade Fair, Governor Sule, who was represented by a state official, stated that the existing partnership with the conglomerate could be expanded to support industrial growth.
He also referenced the group’s long-term investment ambitions. This includes a $100 billion target under its Vision 2030 strategy, suggesting such commitments could bolster small businesses and stimulate broader economic activity.
The refinery expansion signals growing investor confidence in Nigeria’s industrial base. Analysts say its long-term impact will depend on regulatory stability, infrastructure support, and global oil market dynamics.
Project Factsheet
Current Capacity: 650,000 barrels per day (bpd).
Target Capacity: 1.4 million barrels per day.
Workforce Impact: Expected to employ 95,000 skilled workers at peak construction.
Global Rank: Upon completion, it is set to surpass the Jamnagar Refinery in India to become the largest globally.
Strategic Goal: To account for roughly 10% of the total refining capacity of the United States and achieve total fuel self-sufficiency for Nigeria.
