Aliko Dangote, the billionaire founder of the Dangote Group, has accused “cabals” of continuing to undermine the progress of his $20 billion refinery project in Lagos, Nigeria.

The Dangote Refinery, which is expected to be one of the largest oil refineries in Africa, has been plagued by delays and setbacks, and Dangote’s statement suggests that these challenges are not just technical or logistical, but also the result of deliberate sabotage by powerful interests.

Speaking to journalists, Dangote expressed his frustration with the ongoing efforts to hinder the refinery’s development, stating, “The cabals are still fighting our refinery.”

The Dangote Refinery, which is expected to produce 650,000 barrels of oil per day, has been touted as a game-changer for Nigeria’s economy, which has long been plagued by a dependence on imported petroleum products.

The refinery’s completion is expected to reduce Nigeria’s fuel imports, create thousands of jobs, and generate significant revenue for the government.

However, the project has faced numerous challenges, including funding issues, logistical problems, and regulatory hurdles. Dangote’s statement suggests that these challenges are not just the result of bad luck or poor planning, but also the result of a concerted effort by powerful interests to undermine the project.

Dangote expressed optimism that he would win the fight for the refinery, stating his determination to fight on.

“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,” he said.

The Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, Devakumar Edwin, had previously accused international oil companies (IOCs) in Nigeria of plans to frustrate the survival of the new Dangote refinery by deliberately and willfully frustrating the refinery’s efforts to buy local crude by hiking the cost above the market price.

“This is a very serious issue,” said Dr. Muda Yusuf, Director-General of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “If it is true that cabals are sabotaging the refinery, it is a clear indication that the interests of a few powerful individuals or groups are being prioritized over the interests of the nation. This is unacceptable and must be addressed by the government.” The Nigerian government’s plan to increase its capacity to stockpile petroleum products, in preparation for potential shocks to the global oil market, underscores the importance of the Dangote Refinery project and the need to address the challenges facing it.