Aliko Dangote, the billionaire businessman and owner of the Dangote Refinery, has announced the rollout of the refinery’s first batch of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, from its 650,000 barrels per day facility.
During a press conference held in Lagos on September 3, 2024, Dangote reassured Nigerians that the fuel produced by his refinery would be of exceptional quality, contributing to longer-lasting vehicle engines and reducing the issues that have plagued drivers in recent years.
“You will not be having engine issues, which a lot of us were having. It won’t happen at all.
The quality here will match that of anywhere in the world; US, America, we will make sure that nobody will beat us in terms of quality,” Dangote asserted.
He emphasized that the new product will soon hit the market once final agreements are made with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).
This development is expected to provide significant relief to Nigerians, who have struggled with fluctuating fuel prices and poor fuel quality.
Dangote also highlighted the broader economic impact of his refinery’s operations, noting that the supply of high-quality fuel will support the restoration of the country’s manufacturing and industrial sectors.
“We will help to restore industry and manufacturing.
We will begin real import substitution, which is what we have, you know, saving foreign exchange, earning foreign exchange, which will stabilize the naira, and it will also help bring down inflation and cost of living,” he stated.
As the refinery moves toward achieving its full capacity by the end of the year, there is optimism that this project will play a key role in revitalizing Nigeria’s economy and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
The Dangote Refinery, which has already begun supplying diesel and aviation fuel to marketers, is positioned to significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
As the refinery ramps up operations, there is hope that its contributions will not only ease the country’s fuel challenges but also serve as a catalyst for economic growth and stability.
The cooperation of both the private sector and the government will be crucial in ensuring the long-term success of this ambitious endeavor.