Dangote Refinery Targets Niger State’s Bida Basin for Crude Oil Expansion Lagos, Nigeria – Dangote Refinery, Africa’s largest oil refiner, is set to explore crude oil from the Bida Basin in Niger State, signaling a major expansion in Nigeria’s oil production capacity. This strategic move aims to enhance local production, create jobs, and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
The Dangote Refinery, a cornerstone of Aliko Dangote’s industrial empire, has been pivotal since its launch in 2024. With a current production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, it has reduced Nigeria’s reliance on imported refined petroleum products. Now, the company is looking to elevate its status further by expanding its production to 1.
4 million barrels per day, potentially making it the world’s largest single-train refinery. Governor Umaru Bago of Niger State has invited the Dangote Refinery, along with other private investors, to explore the Bida Basin. This invitation is part of a “One-Stop-Shop “investment model that seeks to stimulate economic and industrial growth in the region, utilizing a Joint Venture–Public Private Partnership framework with minimal government equity.
Fatima Wali Abdurrahman, Regional Director and Senior Advisor to Aliko Dangote, highlighted the Dangote Group’s existing rice processing operations in Wushishi as evidence of its commitment to Niger State.
The company’s involvement is seen as a strategic partnership in the state’s development, aligning with its industrialization initiatives and the broader economic goals of the region.
The expansion plans coincide with Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its oil industry. Last year, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) announced plans to resume crude oil drilling in the north, following the discovery of hydrocarbon reserves in the Upper Benue Trough of the Gongola Basin. This marks the first significant oil discovery in Northern Nigeria, opening up new opportunities for the region.
As Africa seeks to enhance its energy security, the Dangote Refinery’s expansion could inspire a regional shift towards energy self-sufficiency. By providing an alternative to imported fuels, the refinery not only bolsters Nigeria’s energy security but also positions Africa as a player in the global energy market.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: Africa.businessinsider
Source: Chinedu Okafor
