In a groundbreaking development, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery has begun exporting Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to Cameroon, Ghana, Angola, and South Africa, further cementing Nigeria’s position as a leading player in the global energy market. Over the past few weeks, the refinery has also expanded its reach to European markets with significant exports of diesel and jet fuel.
The Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, revealed these advancements while hosting a delegation from the Japanese Business Community in Nigeria, led by Japan’s Ambassador-designate, Suzuki Hideo. In a statement shared on Sunday by the company’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, Edwin highlighted the refinery’s capacity to produce products that meet international standards, showcasing its competitiveness on the global stage.
“In recent weeks, we have exported petrol to countries such as Cameroon, Ghana, Angola, and South Africa. Diesel has been shipped worldwide, while jet fuel is being heavily exported to European markets. Our products are already making an international impact,” Edwin noted.
A Visionary Project Designed and Built by Nigerians
Edwin emphasized that the refinery stands as a testament to Nigerian ingenuity and enterprise, being the brainchild of billionaire investor Aliko Dangote. He stated that the refinery, the world’s largest single-train facility, was designed and constructed entirely by Nigerians, with Dangote Industries Limited acting as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor.
“This facility is not just a refinery but a symbol of what Nigerians can achieve. It is a matter of pride for us that the world’s largest single-train refinery was designed and built by Nigerians for global markets,” Edwin said.
He explained that cutting-edge technologies from around the world were incorporated into the project to ensure it meets the highest global standards. Japanese equipment, among others, has been integrated into the refinery and its accompanying fertilizer plant, showcasing the facility’s reliance on advanced technology.
Opportunities for Collaboration
Addressing the Japanese delegation, Edwin welcomed the opportunity for collaboration, especially in leveraging Japan’s expertise in technological innovation. “We already utilize Japanese technology in our operations, and there’s significant potential for further collaboration,” he said.
“Our cement plant laboratory is fully managed by robots, and we are always eager to adopt advanced technologies. With Japan’s focus on innovation, we see ample opportunities to work together in areas like polypropylene production and other sectors.”
Driving Nigeria’s Economic Growth
Edwin also shed light on the economic impact of the Dangote Petrochemical project, noting that it is set to boost downstream investments, create thousands of jobs, increase tax revenues, and reduce Nigeria’s foreign exchange outflows.
“By leveraging Africa’s crude oil resources to produce refined products locally, we are creating a virtuous cycle of industrial development, job creation, and economic prosperity. Additionally, our polypropylene section will significantly reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imports of this crucial material, which is vital for packaging, textiles, and automotive manufacturing,” he explained.
Japanese Delegation Applauds the Refinery
The Japanese delegation, led by Ambassador-designate Suzuki Hideo, praised the refinery as a marvel of modern engineering and a beacon of Nigeria’s technological advancement. After touring the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Petrochemicals Complex, and Fertilizer Plant, members of the delegation expressed their admiration for the project’s scale and sophistication.
Suzuki Hideo described the refinery as a remarkable masterpiece that reinforces Nigeria’s role as a gateway to Africa. “This facility showcases Nigeria’s progress in technology and innovation, making it a point of pride not just for the country but for the entire continent,” he said.
Takashi Oku, Managing Director of the Japan External Trade Organisation, highlighted the refinery’s significance as the world’s largest single-train refinery. “The scale and automation of this project are astonishing. It represents a true milestone in engineering and innovation,” he said, adding that the refinery positions Nigeria as a major player on the global energy stage.
Masahiro Tsuno, Managing Director of Itochu Nigeria Limited, echoed this sentiment, calling the refinery a miracle. “I’ve seen refineries across Vietnam and the Middle East, but the scale of this project by a single investor is nothing short of extraordinary. It’s truly one of the wonders of the world,” he remarked.
Strengthening Nigeria’s Position as Africa’s Gateway
With the Dangote Refinery now operational and delivering refined products to international markets, Nigeria’s role as a key economic and technological hub in Africa is gaining new momentum. By setting new benchmarks in quality and innovation, the refinery underscores the country’s potential to drive sustainable industrial growth across the continent.
