The Dangote Refinery has announced plans to increase its production capacity from 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 1.4 million bpd, positioning it as the world’s largest oil refinery upon completion.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos on Sunday, the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, said the expansion underscores confidence in Nigeria’s economic future and aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s vision of transforming the nation into a global supplier of refined petroleum products.

“We are more than doubling production—from 650,000 to 1.4 million barrels per day,” Dangote told journalists. “This will make it the largest refinery in the world, surpassing India’s Jamnagar Refinery.”

According to him, the project demonstrates faith in Nigeria, Africa, and “our capacity to shape our own energy future.”

Dangote commended the Federal Government for policy initiatives that have encouraged industrial investment, including the Nigeria First Policy, the Naira-for-Crude Policy, and the One-Stop Shop Initiative. He said these measures had revitalised the downstream sector and spurred private participation in local refining.

He further disclosed that government mediation had helped resolve recent disruptions at the refinery, linked to union activities and sabotage attempts.

The expansion is expected to generate about 65,000 jobs during the construction phase and create new opportunities for local industries. In addition to refining crude oil, the upgraded facility will increase polypropylene production from 900,000 metric tonnes to 2.4 million metric tonnes annually. It will also produce base oils and linear alkylbenzene, a key ingredient used in detergents.

The refinery will deliver Euro VI-standard fuels, meeting the world’s highest environmental and emission benchmarks. It will also boost power generation capacity to ensure full operational self-sufficiency.

“Our goal has never been just to refine oil, but to refine opportunities for our people,” Dangote said.

Addressing concerns about possible fuel shortages during the festive season, he assured Nigerians of steady fuel supply and stable 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 added.

The Dangote Refinery was inaugurated in May 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who described it as a game-changer for Nigeria’s economy. Although the plant did not commence operations until January 2024—after receiving six million barrels of crude—it has since been supplying both local and international markets, reducing Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.