Aliko Dangote has announced that the expansion of the Dangote Group refinery from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day will create about 95,000 jobs at the peak of construction, in what is shaping up to be one of Nigeria’s largest industrial expansion projects.
Dangote disclosed in Lagos during his induction as an honorary fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, describing the refinery expansion as a major milestone in Nigeria’s industrial transformation.
According to him, the expansion will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s refining capacity, reduce dependence on imported fuel, and deepen the country’s oil and gas value chain.
“This award is particularly meaningful because it recognises what we are doing in the industry, especially our commitment to employing engineers and skilled professionals. At the peak of construction for this expansion, we expect to have about 95,000 skilled workers on site,” Dangote said.
The planned expansion marks a new phase in the refinery’s growth, with commercial fuel production beginning in 2024 after years of construction.
The Lekki-based refinery currently processes 650,000 barrels daily and remains Africa’s largest single-train refinery. Once expanded to 1.4 million barrels per day, it is expected to become the world’s largest refinery, overtaking India’s Jamnagar refinery.
Industry analysts say the project could reshape Nigeria’s downstream oil sector by improving domestic fuel supply, reducing import bills, and strengthening energy security.
Dangote said the expansion would be powered largely by Nigerian expertise, creating opportunities for engineers, technicians, welders, artisans, and other skilled professionals.
Beyond job creation, he said the expansion would stimulate local manufacturing, enhance technology transfer, and strengthen industrial supply chains.
The project is also linked to Dangote Group’s broader industrial strategy, including petrochemicals and fertiliser production.
Recent partnerships are expected to boost polypropylene production and expand petrochemical output for industrial use, especially in plastics and detergent manufacturing.
Analysts believe this could reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported industrial raw materials and support local production.
Dangote said the project reflects his confidence in Nigeria’s industrial future and Africa’s ability to build world-class infrastructure.
“The scale of this expansion reflects our confidence in Nigerian capacity and our belief that Africa can build infrastructure that meets global standards,” he said.
President of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Rahamon Bello, said Dangote’s recognition was deserved and described his industrial journey as an inspiration to young engineers and entrepreneurs.
The refinery expansion is expected to be completed within three years and is projected to further strengthen Nigeria’s energy independence while boosting regional fuel exports.
