Sub-Saharan Africa’s largest petrochemical complex, the $20-billion Dangote Oil Refinery, owned by Aliko Dangote, the world’s richest Black billionaire, has officially commenced the production of diesel and aviation fuel.
Dangote Group, Africa’s most diversified manufacturing conglomerate, confirmed the commencement of diesel and aviation fuel production in a statement released this morning on X (formerly known as Twitter). The refinery, inaugurated in May 2023, is the world’s largest single-train refinery with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day.
Dangote, chairman of Dangote Group, expressed gratitude to Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support, calling the production launch a testament to Tinubu’s visionary leadership.
“This is a big day for Nigeria. We are delighted to have reached this significant milestone. This is an important achievement for our country, as it demonstrates our ability to develop and deliver large capital projects. This is a game changer for our country,” he remarked.
Dangote Oil Refinery’s milestone with diesel and jet fuel production, petrol production in the pipeline
The Dangote Petrochemical Complex, which projects an annual revenue of $27 billion at full capacity, aims to meet 100 percent of Nigeria’s demand for refined petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, kerosene, and jet fuel.
The refinery faced operational delays, sparking concerns about meeting Nigeria’s refined petroleum needs. However, with the successful arrival of the sixth and final batch of one million barrels of crude oil required for initial operations, the facility is now positioned to fulfill its commitment to supply gasoline to the country.
Anthony Chiejina, the chief branding and communications officer of Dangote Group, confirmed that while diesel and aviation fuel production has commenced, Petroleum Motor Spirit (petrol) is yet to be produced.
Global standards and local impact: Dangote Oil Refinery’s design for success
The refinery boasts truck-loading gantries capable of loading 2,900 trucks a day, ensuring efficient distribution. The produced products adhere to Euro V specifications, and the refinery design aligns with international standards, including those set by the World Bank, US EPA, European emission norms, and DPR emission/effluent norms.
Expressing gratitude, Dangote extended appreciation to bankers, financiers, the Lagos State Government led by Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the host communities and their Traditional leaders for their support.
As Nigeria marks this milestone, the Dangote Oil Refinery is poised to contribute significantly to the nation’s energy security and boost the economy through increased exports of refined petroleum products.
