Kenyan presidential hopeful Patrick Osoi has opposed Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote’s proposed $16bn oil refinery in Kenya, insisting that local investors should have the opportunity to develop the facility.

Osoi made his position known while addressing supporters at a Lions Movement event in a video that circulated online on Sunday. He said Kenya had business leaders with the financial capacity to undertake the project without relying on the Nigerian industrialist.

The presidential aspirant also vowed that Dangote would have to abandon the plan if he became president next year, arguing that his administration would prioritise local participation in major investments.

His remarks come weeks after Dangote and Kenyan President William Ruto launched the refinery project in Lamu on September 30, 2026.

The proposed facility is designed to process 700,000 barrels of crude oil daily, with plans to supply petroleum products to Kenya and other markets across East Africa.

The project is expected to expand the region’s refining capacity and reduce its reliance on imported petroleum products. Reports surrounding its launch indicate that construction could take about 40 months to complete.

However, the investment has attracted objections from some residents over land ownership, compensation and potential environmental effects. A Kenyan court has also directed parties involved in a land dispute connected to the project to maintain the existing situation.

Osoi’s opposition introduces another challenge for the proposed refinery as discussions continue over its development and the concerns raised by affected communities.

Dangote’s planned investment is among the major industrial projects expected to increase Africa’s capacity to refine crude oil locally. Its progress will depend on the resolution of outstanding concerns and the steps taken by the relevant stakeholders.