Aliko Dangote, founder of Dangote Group, has clarified that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) will supply crude oil to the Dangote Refinery within a few weeks. This refutes claims that NNPC denied crude supply to the $19.5 billion refinery.
With a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, the Dangote Refinery in Lagos is set to be Africa’s largest single-train refinery. Dangote stated that NNPC and its leadership under Mele Kyari have been supportive of the project. He expressed appreciation for the partnership with NNPC and its role in enabling Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
The clarification came after Dangote Refinery Executive Director Devakumar Edwin mentioned delayed production in a recent interview. His comments were misinterpreted as meaning NNPC would not supply crude oil.
Dangote aims for the refinery to make Nigeria self-sufficient for its refined petroleum needs. The facility can also generate a surplus for export. This will help Nigeria become less reliant on imported fuels and transition from an importer to exporter.
The progress on the Dangote Refinery comes as NNPC transforms into a commercially-driven energy company. NNPC will likely support domestic refining projects that align with its strategic objectives. The Dangote Refinery can contribute to energy security and diversification in Africa’s largest oil producer.