Dangote Refinery to Reach Full Capacity in 30 Days, Boosting Nigeria’s Economy
Lagos, Nigeria – The Dangote Oil Refinery, Africa’s largest and most ambitious private-sector refinery, is set to reach full operational capacity in the next 30 days, a move expected to significantly impact Nigeria’s economic landscape.
Edwin Devakumar, head of the Dangote Oil Refinery, confirmed on Monday that the refinery, currently running at 85% capacity, will hit 100% production within a month. The refinery, built by Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote in Lagos, has the potential to refine 650,000 barrels per day (bpd) and aims to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
Overcoming Challenges to Full Capacity
Since it began processing crude oil in January last year, the refinery has steadily increased its production, refining essential products such as diesel, naphtha, and jet fuel. Petrol refining commenced in September, marking a major milestone. However, sourcing sufficient crude oil locally has been a significant challenge.
Despite an agreement with the Nigerian government to buy crude in naira, the refinery struggled to secure adequate supplies. Last year, it had to resort to importing crude to maintain operations. This year, Dangote Refinery has requested 550,000 bpd from Nigerian oil producers for the first half of 2025. In response, the Nigerian oil regulator has warned that it will withhold export permits for producers who fail to meet their local supply obligations.
Economic Implications and Market Expansion
Reaching full operational capacity will boost Nigeria’s refining sector and reduce the nation’s reliance on imported petroleum products, easing pressure on foreign exchange reserves. It will also create jobs and provide stability in the energy market, further driving economic recovery.
As part of its expansion strategy, Dangote Refinery is exploring international markets for its refined products. Aliko Dangote recently revealed that two cargoes of jet fuel had been shipped to Saudi Aramco, demonstrating the refinery’s ability to compete globally.
“We are looking at all the markets right now,” Devakumar stated, reinforcing the company’s vision of becoming a dominant player in the international refining industry.
With full capacity just weeks away, the Dangote Refinery is poised to transform Nigeria’s energy sector and position the country as a key player in global oil refining.
