Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and President of the Dangote Group, has reiterated his accusations against powerful interests in Nigeria’s oil sector, alleging ongoing sabotage of his $20 billion refinery located in Lekki, Lagos.
Speaking at an investor forum in Lagos on May 2, 2025, Dangote claimed that entrenched groups benefiting from government-subsidised oil imports are actively resisting the success of his refinery.
Dangote stated, “For a very, very long time, those that have made a lot of money from government-subsidised oil imports into Nigeria were the ones trying to sabotage the $20 billion worth of refinery situated in Lekki, Lagos.”
He further alleged that these groups have funded opposition to the government’s removal of petrol subsidies and are hindering the refinery’s operations.
Despite these challenges, Dangote expressed confidence in overcoming the obstacles, saying, “We’re fighting, and the fight is not yet finished. But I have been fighting all my life, and I am ready and 100 per cent sure I will win at the end of the day.”Â
The Dangote Refinery, which commenced petrol sales in September 2024, has significantly impacted Nigeria’s fuel import dynamics.
However, Dangote has previously accused international oil companies of attempting to sabotage the refinery by inflating crude prices, forcing the facility to import crude from distant countries like the United States.
In response to these allegations, the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria has declared their support for Dangote amidst the ongoing challenges.
