Why Tinubu Supported Dangote Refinery Project — Presidency Explains 
President Bsola Ahmed Tinubu has explained why his administration decided to support the Dangote Refinery, describing the multi-billion-dollar project as critical to Nigeria’s energy security, economic growth and industrial development.
Tinubu said the refinery represents a major step toward ending Nigeria’s long-standing dependence on imported petroleum products while strengthening local refining capacity across Africa.
The President noted that supporting private-sector investments like the Dangote Refinery aligns with his administration’s broader economic agenda focused on industrialisation, job creation and energy self-sufficiency.
According to Tinubu, the refinery’s planned expansion from 650,000 barrels per day to about 1.4 million barrels daily would position Nigeria as a major global refining hub and boost fuel supply across the African continent.
Represented by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, the President said Africa spends billions of dollars annually importing hydrocarbon products despite possessing enormous natural resources.
He stressed that supporting local refining projects would help Nigeria retain more value within its economy, reduce pressure on foreign exchange and strengthen the downstream petroleum sector.
Tinubu further stated that the Federal Government remains committed to backing investments that promote value addition, local production and long-term economic stability.
The Dangote Refinery, located in Lekki, Lagos State, is regarded as one of the largest industrial investments in Africa and is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel.
Industry analysts believe the refinery could improve fuel availability, reduce importation costs and increase Nigeria’s export earnings through refined petroleum products.
The refinery is also projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs while strengthening Nigeria’s position in the global energy market.
