President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has announced that the ongoing expansion of the Dangote Refinery is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, with up to 95,000 skilled workers projected to be engaged at the peak of construction.
He made this known over the weekend in Lagos during his induction as an honorary fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering.
Dangote described the expansion as a landmark achievement that reflects Nigeria’s growing industrial capacity and commitment to large-scale infrastructure development.
According to him, the project highlights the group’s dedication to engineering excellence, job creation, and sustainable economic growth across the country.
“This award is particularly meaningful because it recognises what we are doing in the industry, especially our commitment to employing engineers and skilled professionals. At the peak of construction for this expansion, we expect to have about 95,000 skilled workers on site, and we will continue to grow,” Dangote said.
The refinery, which currently has a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is set to be expanded to 1.4 million barrels per day over the next three years. Upon completion, Dangote stated that it will surpass the Jamnagar refinery in India, making it the largest refinery in the world.
He further explained that the expansion will rely heavily on Nigerian expertise, creating opportunities for engineers, technicians, artisans, and other skilled professionals, while reinforcing local capacity development.
Beyond job creation, the project is expected to deliver wider economic benefits. These include stimulating local manufacturing, encouraging technology transfer, and strengthening Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain.
It is also projected to enhance fuel security, reduce dependence on imported petroleum products, and generate significant foreign exchange savings for the country.
“The scale of this expansion reflects our confidence in Nigerian capacity and our belief that Africa has the ability to build world-class infrastructure that meets global standards,” Dangote stated.
In his remarks, the President of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, Rahamon Bello, described Dangote’s recognition as well deserved, noting that his contributions extend beyond infrastructure to inspiring future generations.
“What makes this recognition fitting is not only what has been built but also what has been inspired. Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s journey continues to motivate a new generation of engineers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to think boldly, act decisively, and believe in the immense possibilities within our continent,” Bello said.
The expansion, according to Dangote, is part of a long-term vision aimed at accelerating industrialisation in Nigeria and across Africa, positioning the continent as a hub for world-class production and innovation.
