The Dangote Refinery, a monumental $20 billion investment led by billionaire Aliko Dangote, has officially commenced the production of petrol, marking a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s energy sector.
This significant development is anticipated to help ease the persistent fuel shortages that have plagued the country, offering much-needed relief to millions of Nigerians.
During a press briefing on Wednesday, Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, emphasized the refinery’s potential to drive national growth and prosperity by ensuring a steady energy supply.
“This refinery is set to fuel growth, development, and prosperity by supplying the energy needed by our people,” Dangote declared.
He expressed his appreciation for the supportive environment provided by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which played a crucial role in the project’s success.
“I salute the people of Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu’s government for creating the conditions that allowed us to achieve this monumental task. This refinery will drive growth, development, and prosperity by providing energy to our people,” Dangote stated.
Dangote also commended Tinubu for the “Naira for crude, Naira for product” policy, which he believes will strengthen the Naira by decreasing the demand for foreign currency by 40%.
“As we have this refinery working, it will show the true consumption of Nigeria; we can track every loaded truck and ship,” he added.
He further noted that the refinery is strategically designed to meet the energy needs of both Nigeria and the broader sub-Saharan Africa region.