Dangote Refinery to Double Capacity with 700,000 bpd Expansion Plan
The Dangote Group has unveiled plans to significantly expand the capacity of its flagship Dangote Refinery, aiming to add 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) by 2028 in a move that could reshape Nigeria’s energy landscape.
The planned expansion would increase the refinery’s current processing capacity of about 650,000 bpd to approximately 1.4 million bpd, positioning it among the largest refining complexes globally.
Chief Executive Officer of the refinery, David Bird, disclosed the development during remarks at an international energy conference in London.
He explained that the project would essentially replicate the existing facility, allowing for faster execution and operational efficiency.
According to Bird, preparatory steps are already underway, including the procurement of critical equipment and the awarding of key construction contracts ahead of the full-scale development phase.
The expansion plan comes as the refinery continues to scale up production and deepen its footprint in global fuel markets, particularly in aviation fuel.
Industry insiders note that surplus jet fuel production has enabled the facility to explore export opportunities beyond Africa, supplying markets in Europe and other regions.
Analysts say the move could strengthen Nigeria’s position in global petroleum supply chains at a time of ongoing volatility in traditional oil-producing regions.
By increasing domestic refining capacity, the project is also expected to further reduce the country’s reliance on imported refined products. Commissioned in 2024, the Dangote Refinery is widely regarded as the world’s largest single-train refinery.
Its operations have already begun to alter fuel supply dynamics within Nigeria and across West Africa.
Experts believe the proposed expansion could boost foreign exchange earnings, create jobs, and reinforce Nigeria’s ambition to become a major hub for refined petroleum exports.
If completed as scheduled, the project would mark one of the most significant industrial capacity expansions in Africa’s energy sector in recent years.
