— We’re creating jobs, not displacing anyone
— Industrialisation, not importation will grow Africa’s economy
President/ Chief Executive Dangote Petroleum Refinery, Aliko Dangote, has declared that since the refinery began producing petrol a year ago, Nigeria’s five – decade – long struggle with fuel queues has finally come to an end.
Speaking at a Conference to mark the first anniversary of the launch of petroleum from the 650,000 barrels per day refinery, Dangote highlighted the Nigerians have endured persistent fuel queues since 1975. However, this issue has been steadily resolved since the refinery commenced production on 3rd September 2024.
“We have been battling fuel queues since 1975, but today Nigerians are witnessing a new era,” he said.
Acknowledging the numerous challenges the refinery has faced since its Inception, Dangote emphasised the company’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria and Africa. “The journey has been challenging because we sought to transform the downstream sector in Nigeria. Some believed we were taking food from their tables, which simply isn’t true. What we have done is to make our country and continent proud.
Previously, only two African countries were not importing petrol, but regrettably, they have since resumed import. This is detrimental to Africa,” he added
Reflecting on the challenging during the refinery development, Dangote disclosed that the project involved enormous risk He received repeated warnings from Industry experts, Investors, local and foreign government officials who argued that only sovereign nations undertook such large – scale refinery ventures. He admitted that had the project failed, he would have lost his assets to lenders.
Despite opposition and economic headwinds, the refinery has successfully reduced the price of petrol from nearly N1,100 before production began to N841 in the South West, Abuja, Delta Rivers, Edo and Kwara. With gradual rollout of CNG – powered trucks, Dangote anticipated this price reduction will soon be felt nationwide.
He noted that the refinery has sufficient capacity to meet Nigeria’s domestic demand, while also generating foreign exchange through exports. He revealed that between June and first week of September 2025, the facility has exported over 1.1 billion litres of PMS underscoring its capacity to meet domestic demand and contribute significantly to foreign exchange earnings.
Emphasising job creation, he stated that the refinery has no intention of displacing workers but instead generating thousands of new employment opportunities. The deployment of 4, 000 CNG – powered trucks is expected to create at least 24,000 jobs across Nigeria.
“We have not displaced any jobs we are creating many more. The CNG trucks will not be operated by robots,” he said. “Our employees earn salaries three times the minimum wage. Our drivers receive a living wage, life insurance, health insurance covering themselves, their spouses, and up to four children, as well as a life – long pension. We are not only employing drivers but also mechanics, fleet managers, and other professionals to support the CNG fleet.
He reaffirmed his commitment to Nigeria’s Industrialisation, describing it as essential for the continent’s development. Dangote emphasised the urgent need for Nigeria to protect its local industries and discourage the dumping of cheap foreign goods, citing the collapse of the once thriving textile sector as a cautionary example.
He noted that Nigeria’s path to sustainable economic growth lies in Industrialisation, which not only boosts local productivity but also support a circular economy, “other nations were not Industrialised our own economic without this, how can others Invest? That is why I believe the National Assembly should enact legislation to support the Federal Government’s Nigeria First Policy. My goal is to see Africa prosper, as we have the fastest – growing population in the world Relying on importing, means exporting jobs and importing poverty. Many individual with greater financial resources than myself want to invest but the challenges we face discourage them. Numerous sectors are still in urgent need of Industrialisation.
He also clarified that the refinery has no plans to enter the retail market, noting that he declined opportunities to acquire filling stations when they were offered for sale. Looking ahead Dangote announced that the refinery’s capacity is expected to rise to 700,000 barrels per day in its second – year of operation, with the aim of further supporting economic growth and job creation.
“Nigeria has now become the refining hub of Africa. We are set to become the largest exporter of polypropylene and are aiming to make Nigeria the world’s leading producer of fertiliser. These Initiatives will generate substantial foreign exchange, create employment, and stimulate growth in other sectors.” he said.
“We are fully committed to supporting the government in adding value, creating jobs, and building strong economy.” He also expressed his gratitude to the Federal Government, the refinery’s partners, dedicated workforce, and the Nigeria public for their continual support. In particular, he commended Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria ( IPMAN ) for encouraging its members to register for the free distribution Initiative wiling CNG – powered trucks.
Dangote also used the occasion to showcase some of the CNG – powered trucks currently loading petrol from the refinery, emphasising that the company will successfully deploy all 4,000 trucks across the country soon. He allayed any fears of potential attacks on the drivers or the trucks, stressing that Nigeria’s is a country governed by rule of law and that security agencies are fully empowered to protect its citizens and infrastructure.
