For the first time in five decades, Nigerians are experiencing relief from the long, weary queues at filling stations. Aliko Dangote declared his refinery’s fuel output ended Nigeria’s chronic fuel scarcity since production began a year ago.
A New Era in Nigeria’s Downstream Sector
Speaking at the refinery’s first-anniversary conference, Dangote recalled how fuel queues had persisted since 1975. He described September 3, 2024 the day the 650,000 barrels-per-day plant began producing petrol as a turning point for the nation’s downstream sector.
“We have been battling fuel queues since 1975, but today Nigerians are witnessing a new era,” he said.
Investors and industry players warned that only sovereign states could build such mega-refineries, but Dangote anchored his vision on faith in Nigeria and Africa’s potential and pressed ahead. He admitted that failure would have cost him all his assets to lenders but stressed that the risk was worth taking.
Price Relief and Market Stability
The refinery has significantly altered Nigeria’s pricing dynamics. Fuel, which once sold for nearly ₦1,100 per litre, now retails around ₦841 in the Southwest, Abuja, Delta, Rivers, Edo, and Kwara. Dangote projected that the wider deployment of compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered trucks would extend these savings nationwide, ensuring a more competitive downstream market.
Between June and early September 2025 alone, the refinery exported over 1.1 billion litres of petrol, strengthening Nigeria’s foreign exchange earnings and proving its dual capacity to serve domestic demand and support regional markets.
Job Creation and Industrial Impact
Far from displacing workers, the refinery is expanding employment opportunities. The rollout of 4,000 CNG trucks is expected to generate at least 24,000 jobs across the country, with drivers receiving wages three times the minimum standard, alongside life insurance, health benefits, and pension packages.
Dangote stressed that industrialisation, not imports, must drive Nigeria’s economic future. He warned that unchecked foreign dumping, as witnessed in the collapse of the textile industry, threatens local productivity and jobs.
“Other nations were not industrialised by outsiders. We must build and industrialise our own economies. Relying on imports means exporting jobs and importing poverty,” he cautioned.
Expansion and Africa’s Refining Future
Dangote plans to expand the refinery to 700,000 barrels daily next year, positioning Nigeria as Africa’s refining hub.
Beyond fuel, the refinery aims to lead in polypropylene exports and transform Nigeria into a top global fertiliser producer.
He reaffirmed that the refinery would not compete in the retail space, preferring instead to collaborate with stakeholders to build a stronger, more efficient supply chain.
Commitment to Nation-Building
Dangote acknowledged the support of the Federal Government, partners, workers, and the Nigerian people. He particularly commended IPMAN for mobilising members to adopt the CNG initiative, which he said symbolises the refinery’s commitment to sustainable energy logistics.
Dangote assured Nigerians that security agencies stand ready to protect fuel trucks and operators, affirming Nigeria’s rule of law.
“Nigeria has now become the refining hub of Africa. We are fully committed to supporting the government in adding value, creating jobs, and building a stronger economy,” he said.
