Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Industrialist Aliko Dangote has reassured Nigerians of uninterrupted fuel availability throughout the Christmas period, stating that the days of long queues at petrol stations are finally over. Speaking to journalists after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Dangote disclosed that his company has formally notified the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) of its ability to supply 50 million litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) daily, a volume that significantly exceeds national consumption requirements.
The business magnate emphasized that this increase in production capacity is not only aimed at meeting domestic demand but also at serving regional markets. By February 2026, Dangote plans to supply an additional 15 to 20 million litres of PMS beyond Nigeria’s consumption needs, effectively positioning the country as a net exporter of refined petroleum products in West Africa. “This will ensure that Nigerians and neighbouring countries have uninterrupted access to fuel, even during peak festive periods,” he said.
Dangote also highlighted the transformative impact of the refinery on domestic manufacturing. Industries, particularly in the plastics sector, will now enjoy a full local supply of feedstock, reducing dependence on costly imports and saving up to $400 million annually. “By providing a reliable and locally sourced feedstock, we are supporting industrial growth and fostering economic self-sufficiency,” Dangote explained.
Looking ahead, Dangote revealed plans to expand the Dangote Refinery’s production capacity to 1.4 million barrels per day by 2028, overtaking India’s Reliance refinery, currently the world’s largest at 1.25 million barrels per day. “All necessary agreements have been signed, and construction piling is scheduled to begin before the end of January 2026,” he confirmed, underscoring the urgency and scale of the project.
In addition to petroleum products, Dangote announced plans to increase urea production to 12 million tonnes annually, positioning Nigeria as the world’s largest fertilizer producer, surpassing Russia and Qatar. The expanded fertilizer output is intended to supply the entire African continent, enhancing food security and agricultural productivity across the region. “Nigeria will become the hub for affordable, high-quality fertilizers in Africa, benefiting millions of farmers,” Dangote said.
He attributed the recent drop in petrol and diesel prices to improved competition and reduced fuel smuggling, asserting that the refinery is a long-term strategic investment, not a short-term profit venture. Dangote stressed that while challenges exist, including structural bottlenecks in the solid minerals sector—particularly limited port capacity—these are being addressed through strategic infrastructure development.
In line with this, Dangote announced plans to construct the largest deep-sea port in West Africa at Olokola, with completion expected within two to two-and-a-half years. The port will serve as a critical hub for petroleum products, minerals, and other exports, bolstering Nigeria’s logistics and trade capacity.
Dangote also expressed strong support for the Tinubu administration’s naira-for-crude initiative, describing it as a patriotic policy designed to strengthen the local economy and reduce dependence on foreign currency. While acknowledging initial resistance from international oil companies, he noted that these challenges could be overcome through legislative or administrative action, paving the way for broader adoption of the policy.
Experts say Dangote’s announcements mark a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s industrial and energy landscape. With plans for expanded refining capacity, fertilizer production, and major infrastructure projects, the initiatives are expected to create thousands of jobs, stimulate local manufacturing, and enhance Nigeria’s position as a regional economic powerhouse.
Dangote’s vision underscores a strategic shift toward self-reliance, industrialization, and regional integration, signaling a transformative era for Nigeria’s energy, agriculture, and industrial sectors.
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