A major industrial undertaking in Africa is poised for further growth, as Aliko Dangote unveiled plans to increase the capacity of the Dangote Refinery to 1.4 million barrels per day. The expansion is expected to generate as many as 95,000 skilled roles during peak construction.
The announcement was made in Lagos during his induction as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, where he described the project as a key milestone in advancing Nigeria’s industrial development.
He noted that the recognition highlights the group’s contributions to industry, adding that the project would engage “around 95,000 skilled workers on site” at its busiest stage.
When completed, the expanded facility is expected to overtake the Jamnagar Refinery in India, becoming the largest refinery globally in terms of capacity. The upgrade is also anticipated to boost local refining, cut dependence on fuel imports, and ease strain on foreign exchange reserves.
According to Dangote, the project will largely utilise domestic expertise, opening up roles for engineers, technicians, and artisans, while encouraging knowledge transfer and strengthening the wider oil and gas ecosystem.
He emphasised that the scale of the project demonstrates strong confidence in local capabilities and underscores the belief that Africa can deliver infrastructure on a global standard.
Analysts point out that the refinery already plays a central role in Nigeria’s ambition to become a net exporter of refined petroleum products, with expected ripple effects across manufacturing and logistics sectors.
In a related development, Abdullahi Sule urged the Dangote Group to expand its investments in Nasarawa State, highlighting the region’s underutilised mineral potential.
Speaking at the Nasarawa Trade Fair, the governor represented by a state official said the partnership with the company could be deepened to drive industrialisation.
He also pointed to the group’s long-term ambitions, including a $100 billion target under its Vision 2030 plan, suggesting such investments could support small businesses and stimulate wider economic growth.
Even with the positive outlook, experts caution that the refinery’s long-term success will hinge on consistent regulations, adequate infrastructure, and trends in the global oil market.