Dangote Refinery Achieves Major Milestone with First Jet Fuel Export to Saudi Aramco
By DAYO ADESULU
Nigeria’s Energy Sector Breaks New Ground as Dangote Refinery Sells Jet Fuel to World’s Largest Oil Producer
Lagos, Nigeria – February 2025 – Dangote Petroleum Refinery has reached a historic milestone by successfully exporting two cargoes of jet fuel to Saudi Aramco, the world’s largest oil producer. This achievement underscores Nigeria’s growing presence in the global energy market and highlights the refinery’s world-class standards.
Dangote Refinery Enters Global Market
Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, disclosed this breakthrough during a visit by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) to the Dangote Fertiliser Limited and the Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals in Ibeju Lekki, Lagos.
“We are reaching the ambitious goals we set for ourselves, and I’m pleased to announce that we’ve just sold two cargoes of jet fuel to Saudi Aramco,” Dangote said.
Since its commencement of production in 2024, the $20 billion refinery has steadily ramped up operations and now produces 550,000 barrels per day, positioning itself as a game-changer in Africa’s energy sector.
NESG Lauds Dangote’s Vision
During the visit, NESG Chairman, Niyi Yusuf, commended Dangote for his vision and investment in Nigeria’s energy infrastructure. He emphasized that for Nigeria to achieve its goal of a $1 trillion economy, domestic investments of this scale are crucial.
“To achieve a $1 trillion economy, much of that must come from domestic investments. This refinery, fertilizer plant, petrochemical complex, and supporting infrastructure are monumental,” Yusuf stated. “We need more initiatives like this to foster industrial growth, strengthen SMEs, and ensure long-term economic stability.”
Yusuf also stressed the need for Nigeria to move away from being a dumping ground for foreign products and instead support local entrepreneurs who can drive self-sufficiency and economic independence.
Transforming Nigeria’s Energy Landscape
The refinery’s ability to export jet fuel signals a shift in Nigeria’s energy sector from reliance on imports to becoming a major exporter of refined petroleum products. This development is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s fuel import bill and strengthen its foreign exchange reserves.
“The NESG is grateful, and I believe the nation is as well. This refinery represents the audacity of courage. It takes immense effort to do what you’ve done and still be standing and smiling. Thank you for inspiring us and showing that nothing is impossible,” Yusuf remarked.
Challenges and the Role of Government
Despite its success, Dangote highlighted the challenges of establishing large-scale industries in Nigeria. He pointed out the immense capital investment required due to the lack of infrastructure, which forces private investors to take on responsibilities for essential services such as power, roads, and ports.
He also criticized Nigeria’s reliance on imports and urged the government to implement protective measures similar to other countries. Citing Benin Republic as an example, Dangote noted how the country restricts cement imports to protect its local industries, despite the proximity of his Ibese cement plant.
“The President of Benin is a personal friend, and my Ibese plant is just 28km away, yet they refuse to allow imports to safeguard their local industries,” he explained. “Nigeria must adopt similar strategies to strengthen its economy.”
A New Era for Nigeria’s Industrialization
Dangote reaffirmed his commitment to driving economic transformation in Nigeria, emphasizing that the private sector plays a crucial role in national development.
“The government stands to gain substantially when the private sector flourishes. Fifty-two kobo of every naira Dangote Cement generates goes to the government,” he noted.
As Dangote Refinery continues to expand its market reach, stakeholders are optimistic that this achievement will pave the way for further economic growth and solidify Nigeria’s position as a key player in the global oil and gas industry.
