The Dangote Refinery has successfully exported Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) to multiple African nations, including Cameroon, Angola, Ghana, and South Africa, in recent weeks, signaling its growing impact on regional and global markets.
Devakumar Edwin, Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, revealed this achievement during a visit by a Japanese business delegation led by Japan’s Ambassador-designate to Nigeria, Suzuki Hideo. In a statement released on Sunday, the company’s spokesperson, Anthony Chiejina, quoted Edwin as emphasizing that the refinery’s products meet international standards and are already in global circulation.
“In recent weeks, petrol has been exported to Cameroon, Ghana, Angola, and South Africa. Diesel is being shipped worldwide, and jet fuel is heavily exported to European markets. Our products are making a significant mark globally,” Edwin said.
Edwin highlighted that the refinery represents the vision of Aliko Dangote, a Nigerian entrepreneur, and is a project designed and executed by Nigerians to compete on the global stage. Built as the world’s largest single-train refinery, the facility incorporates advanced technologies from around the globe. Dangote Industries Limited acted as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contractor, ensuring the highest standards of design and operation.
The Vice President also assured the Japanese delegation of opportunities for collaboration, citing the company’s emphasis on adopting cutting-edge technologies. “We already use a significant amount of Japanese equipment in both the refinery and the fertilizer plant. With Japan’s expertise in technological innovation, we see vast opportunities for partnership,” Edwin said.
Edwin outlined the broader economic benefits of the Dangote Petrochemical project, which is set to boost downstream industries, generate employment, increase tax revenues, and significantly contribute to Nigeria’s GDP. He reiterated that the refinery is helping reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported products, including polypropylene, a vital material for industries such as packaging, textiles, and automotive manufacturing.
During the tour, the Japanese delegation commended the refinery and its petrochemical facilities as groundbreaking achievements that reinforce Nigeria’s position as Africa’s gateway to global markets.
Takashi Oku, Managing Director of the Japan External Trade Organisation, described the refinery as a monumental feat. “The Dangote Refinery is a remarkable project that highlights Nigeria’s technological progress. It serves as a testament to the country’s growth and innovation,” Oku said.
Masahiro Tsuno, Managing Director of Itochu Nigeria Limited, called the refinery a “miracle” and one of the world’s wonders. “I’ve visited standalone refineries globally, but witnessing a refinery of this scale, built by a single investor, is extraordinary. It’s truly a marvel,” he remarked.
The refinery’s exports and cutting-edge facilities underscore Nigeria’s leadership in Africa’s oil and gas industry. The Japanese delegation expressed a keen interest in collaborating with Dangote Refinery across sectors, including polypropylene and other petroleum products, recognizing it as a gateway to fostering stronger economic ties between Nigeria and the global community.