Dangote Refinery marks one year, unveils expansion, job creation plans
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for job creation and industrial growth as it celebrated the first anniversary of petrol production.
Speaking at a commemorative conference in Lagos, the refinery’s President and Chief Executive, Aliko Dangote, said the $20 billion facility has not only stabilised Nigeria’s fuel supply but is also generating significant employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
Dangote disclosed that the deployment of the refinery’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) truck fleet would, on its own, create no fewer than 24,000 jobs spanning drivers, mechanics, and fleet management personnel.
“Our employees earn three times the minimum wage. Drivers are covered by life insurance, health benefits for their families, and a lifelong pension,” Dangote stated.
He emphasised that industrialisation remains the only viable pathway to Nigeria’s sustainable economic prosperity, cautioning against the dangers of over-reliance on imports.
“Other nations were not industrialised by outsiders. We must build our own industries or risk exporting jobs and importing poverty,” he warned.
Looking ahead, Dangote revealed plans to increase the refinery’s production capacity from 650,000 barrels per day to 700,000 barrels per day in its second year of operations. He noted that the expansion would consolidate Nigeria’s position as Africa’s leading refining hub.
Beyond fuels, Dangote Industries is also targeting global leadership in fertiliser production and aims to become one of the world’s biggest exporters of polypropylene, a key petrochemical product.
These ventures, Dangote explained, would not only boost Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings but also create stronger industrial linkages across the economy.
Economic strategist Prof. Emmanuel Onyekwere hailed the development, describing the refinery as a game-changer:
“The Dangote Refinery has redefined Nigeria’s industrial landscape. Its multiplier effects will ripple across manufacturing, agriculture, and trade,” he said.
Dangote expressed appreciation to the Federal Government, industry partners, employees, and Nigerians for their support since the refinery commenced operations.
He singled out the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) for backing the company’s CNG truck distribution initiative, which is expected to ease nationwide product delivery.
He also clarified that the refinery has no plans to venture into retail operations, stressing that its focus remains on wholesale supply and collaboration with downstream stakeholders.
As it enters its second year, the refinery is increasingly being viewed not just as an energy project but as a symbol of Nigeria’s industrial resurgence. With fuel queues disappearing, more jobs being created, and industrial linkages expanding, the Dangote Refinery is positioning itself as a cornerstone of the nation’s economic transformation.
