Oil refining is a major challenge for Nigeria’s energy self-sufficiency. In this perspective, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals recently purchased one million barrels of Agbami grade crude oil from Shell International Trading and Shipping Company Limited (STASCO) for refining.
This acquisition marks an important step in increasing Nigeria’s refining capacity and in the quest for energy self-sufficiency. In a press release, Dangote Refinery said crude oil from STASCO had been unloaded into the refinery’s tanks, which will fuel an initial production phase of 350,000 barrels per day. The next shipments will be supplied by NNPC in the next two to three weeks, while the last shipment will be supplied by ExxonMobil.
This supply of crude oil will enable production of jet fuel, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and diesel to begin, before moving to the production of premium gasoline. This initiative will play a key role in resolving fuel supply issues in Nigeria and West African countries.
The Dangote refinery is designed to process 100% Nigerian crude oil, as well as other types of African, Middle Eastern and even American light crude oil. It will be able to meet 100% of Nigeria’s needs for refined products such as gasoline, diesel, kerosene and jet fuel, with even surplus to export.
The refinery is equipped with truck loading terminals, capable of loading up to 2,900 trucks per day, and has a self-sufficient marine facility capable of accommodating the largest vessels available. All products from the refinery will comply with European and American quality standards.
Chairman of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, welcomed this crucial milestone and highlighted the company’s keenness to develop and deliver major investment projects. He is also delighted to soon be able to deliver the first refined products to the Nigerian market.
For his part, the president of the Shell group in Nigeria, Osagie Okunbor, said he was happy to contribute to the commissioning of this refinery which will produce gasoline, diesel and low sulfur fuels for Nigeria and all of West Africa.
In conclusion, with this crude oil acquisition, the Dangote Petroleum Refinery is well on its way to achieving its goal of energy self-sufficiency and resolving the fuel supply challenges in Nigeria and the region. An important step which marks a turning point in the refining industry in this country.