By Queen Madaki
Africa’s richest industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has revealed plans to expand the Dangote Refinery in Lagos, with projections showing the facility could become the largest refinery in the world by capacity.
Dangote made the disclosure during his induction as an Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, describing the expansion as a major boost to Nigeria’s industrialisation efforts, according to The Business Bureau.
“This award is particularly meaningful because it recognises what we are doing in the industry,” Dangote said.
95,000 Jobs Expected at Peak Construction
The industrialist disclosed that the refinery expansion project is expected to employ about 95,000 skilled workers at peak construction, making it one of the largest industrial job creation efforts in Africa.
The project is also expected to rely heavily on local expertise, creating opportunities for engineers, technicians, and artisans across Nigeria.
“The project will employ about 95,000 skilled workers on site at its peak,” he added.
Set to Overtake World’s Largest Refinery
Once completed, the upgraded facility is projected to surpass India’s Jamnagar Refinery, currently the largest in the world, in terms of refining capacity.
The expansion is expected to significantly strengthen Nigeria’s domestic refining capability, reduce dependence on imported fuel, and ease pressure on foreign exchange reserves.
Boost to Nigeria’s Oil and Gas Value Chain
Industry analysts say the refinery has already become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s ambition to become a net exporter of refined petroleum products.
The project is expected to generate significant spillover effects across manufacturing, logistics, and
