The Dangote Refinery has exported Premium Motor Spirit (petrol) to countries such as Cameroon, Angola, Ghana, and South Africa in recent weeks.
Devakumar Edwin, Vice President of Oil and Gas at Dangote Industries Limited, revealed this during a visit by a delegation from the Japanese Business Community in Nigeria, led by Japan’s Ambassador-designate, Suzuki Hideo.
In a statement released on Sunday, the company’s spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, quoted Edwin as stating that the refinery’s products meet global standards and are already being exported internationally.
“In recent weeks, we’ve shipped petrol to Cameroon, Ghana, Angola, and South Africa, among others. Diesel is being exported globally, and jet fuel is making its way to European markets. Our products are already recognised worldwide,” Edwin said.
He emphasised that the refinery represents the vision of Nigerian entrepreneur Aliko Dangote, designed and constructed by Nigerians to serve both local and global markets.
Edwin noted that Dangote Industries Limited acted as the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contractor for the refinery, integrating cutting-edge global technologies to meet the highest standards.
He assured the Japanese delegation of the company’s openness to partnerships, highlighting its focus on innovation and advanced technology. “We already have a significant amount of Japanese equipment in both the refinery and the fertiliser plant. There’s great potential for collaboration as we continually seek the latest technologies. For example, our cement plant uses robotic laboratories. With Japan’s innovation-driven approach, there are many opportunities for cooperation,” Edwin said.
He further explained that the Dangote Petrochemical project will enhance investment in downstream industries, create jobs, increase tax revenues, reduce foreign exchange outflows, and contribute to Nigeria’s GDP. The project also aims to leverage Africa’s crude oil resources to produce refined products locally, promoting industrial development and economic growth.
Edwin reiterated the global demand for the refinery’s petroleum products and announced plans to expand the polypropylene section to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imports. Polypropylene is essential in packaging, textiles, and automotive manufacturing.
The Japanese delegation commended the refinery and petrochemical complex, describing it as a masterpiece that showcases Nigeria’s technological achievements. During a tour of the refinery, petrochemical facilities, and fertiliser plant, the delegation praised the project as a landmark development for Africa.
Takashi Oku, Managing Director of the Japan External Trade Organisation, remarked, “This refinery is a testament to Nigeria’s progress. Its scale and sophistication are astonishing, and it firmly establishes Nigeria as the gateway to Africa. It’s an ideal showcase for introducing the country to the global community.”
Masahiro Tsuno, Managing Director of Itochu Nigeria Limited, praised the refinery as a miracle and a global wonder. “I’ve visited refineries worldwide, including in Vietnam and the Middle East, but the scale of this single-investor project is truly unprecedented. Witnessing it firsthand is extraordinary,” he said.
Tsuno expressed his company’s interest in collaborating with the refinery on polypropylene and other petroleum products, highlighting its transformative potential for Nigeria and the world.
