President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has pledged stronger collaboration with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited to boost operations at the Dangote Refinery.
Dangote spoke during a tour of the facility by NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, outlining plans for expanded cooperation on Saturday.
He said both organisations share a common goal of strengthening Nigeria’s energy security and industrial capacity.
“The sky is the limit,” Dangote said, expressing confidence that joint efforts would deliver tangible benefits and make Nigerians proud.
The billionaire disclosed that discussions are ongoing on possible partnerships across the oil and gas value chain.
He hinted at potential upstream collaborations, noting that NNPCL could partner in refinery operations while Dangote Group may explore upstream ventures with the national oil firm.
Dangote described the refinery as more than a refining plant, calling it an emerging industrial hub with multiple integrated projects.
On ownership structure, he revealed that NNPCL holds a 7.25 per cent minority stake in the refinery on behalf of Nigerians.
He announced plans to open up broader public participation within the next four to five months.
According to him, individual Nigerians will soon have the opportunity to purchase shares in the refinery.
Investors, he added, would be allowed to receive dividends either in naira or in dollars, reflecting the company’s foreign exchange earnings.
Dangote also unveiled plans for new industrial projects within the complex, including a linear alkylbenzene plant.
He said the facility would produce sufficient raw materials for detergent manufacturing across Africa.
The plant is expected to be delivered within 30 months, positioning Nigeria as a continental supplier.
Ojulari, who toured the refinery, reportedly described the facility as world-class and commended its scale and technological sophistication.
The renewed partnership signals closer ties between the private sector giant and the state oil company in advancing Nigeria’s refining capacity.
Stakeholders said the collaboration could significantly reduce fuel imports, enhance local production and stimulate broader economic growth.
