The Dangote Refinery has achieved a groundbreaking Dangote Refinery milestone by exporting two cargoes of aviation fuel to Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil producer. This landmark deal underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in the global energy market and marks a significant step in the refinery’s ambitious production goals.
During a visit by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, announced the historic sale. “We are reaching the ambitious goals we set for ourselves, and I’m pleased to announce that we’ve just sold two cargoes of jet fuel to Saudi Aramco,” he revealed. Since commencing operations in 2024, the refinery has ramped up production to 550,000 barrels per day, positioning itself as a key player in the global energy sector.
The NESG delegation, led by Chairman Mr. Niyi Yusuf, commended Dangote for his transformative investments, which align with Nigeria’s goal of achieving a 1trillioneconomy.Yusufhighlightedtherefinery’sroleindrivingindustrializationandfosteringthegrowthofSmallandMediumEnterprises(SMEs).“Toachievea1trillioneconomy.Yusufhighlightedtherefinery’sroleindrivingindustrializationandfosteringthegrowthofSmallandMediumEnterprises(SMEs).“Toachievea1 trillion economy, much of that must come from domestic investments. This refinery represents the audacity of courage,” he stated.
Yusuf also emphasized the need for Nigeria to reduce its reliance on imports and support local industries. “It’s inconceivable that a nation of over 230 million people is still dependent on imports to feed its citizens,” he lamented. He praised Dangote’s vision for making Nigeria self-sufficient in key sectors, noting that the refinery has transformed the country from a net importer to a net exporter of petroleum products.
The NESG delegation toured the refinery and fertiliser plants, marveling at the advanced technology and the expertise of young Nigerian engineers managing world-class facilities. Yusuf acknowledged the challenges Dangote faced in establishing the $20 billion refinery, describing it as a testament to perseverance and innovation.
Dangote, in his remarks, stressed the importance of private sector investment in national development. He argued that Nigeria’s economic challenges could be addressed by creating jobs and protecting local industries. “The concept of a free market should not be used as a pretext for continued import dependence,” he said, citing examples of countries like the USA, China, and even Benin Republic, which safeguard domestic industries to promote self-sufficiency.
He also highlighted the significant contributions of the private sector to government revenue, noting that 52 kobo of every naira generated by Dangote Cement goes to the government. However, he pointed out the challenges of setting up industries in Nigeria, including the lack of infrastructure, which forces investors to provide essential services like power, roads, and ports.
The Dangote Refinery milestone of exporting aviation fuel to Saudi Arabia is a testament to its world-class standards and advanced technologies. This achievement not only boosts Nigeria’s global trade profile but also disrupts traditional fuel supply chains, particularly in Europe, where exports to Africa have declined due to the refinery’s growing output.
As the Dangote Refinery continues to expand its operations, it is poised to play a pivotal role in Nigeria’s economic transformation, driving industrialization, creating jobs, and positioning the country as a major player in the global energy market. This Dangote Refinery milestone is a clear signal that Nigeria’s private sector has the potential to lead the nation toward a prosperous and self-sufficient future.
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