The Dangote Refinery has officially begun the production of diesel and aviation fuel, marking a crucial milestone for Nigeria’s energy sector. Anthony Chiejina, Chief Branding and Communications Officer of Dangote Group, confirmed the commencement of operations on Friday.
While diesel and aviation fuel are now in production, the dangote refinery is yet to produce Petroleum Motor Spirit (petrol). A statement released by the Dangote Group emphasized that they have started the production of diesel and aviation fuel, praising the support and encouragement received, notably from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, expressed gratitude towards President Tinubu for his visionary leadership, calling it a pivotal factor in the realization of this historic project.
Read also: Supreme Court Affirms Dauda Lawal as Zamfara Governor
He extended appreciation to various entities, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, regulatory bodies, and Nigerians who supported and believed in the venture.
“We thank President Bola Tinubu for his support and for making our dream come true. This production, as witnessed today, would not have been possible without his visionary leadership and prompt attention to details,” Dangote stated.
Acknowledging the collaborative efforts, Dangote also thanked the group’s bankers, financiers, the Government of Lagos State led by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, host communities, and their traditional leaders.
The Dangote Refinery boasts impressive capabilities, with the ability to load 2,900 trucks daily at its truck-loading gantries. The products adhere to Euro V specifications, aligning with international standards such as those set by the World Bank, US EPA, and European emission norms.
Anticipation had been building around the refinery’s production, particularly for Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) and JetA1 (aviation fuel), with January 2024 set as the target date. Challenges in petrol production were attributed to the phased supply of crude oil.
Read also: President Tinubu Makes 11 New Appointments (Full List)
Situated in the Dangote Industries Free Zone, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, the refinery covers an extensive area of approximately 2,635 hectares. With a daily refining capacity of 650,000 barrels of crude oil, the facility has received six shipments of one million barrels each.
Nigerians are optimistic that the operationalization of the Dangote Refinery will contribute to a reduction in the price of petroleum products, marking a potential turning point for the nation’s energy landscape.
