Nigeria’s richest industrialist, Aliko Dangote, has announced that members of the public will soon be able to invest directly in the Dangote Refinery, marking a major step toward wider citizen participation in the multi-billion-dollar project.
Dangote disclosed this on Saturday during a facility tour by the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), led by its Group Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, alongside board members and senior executives.
According to Dangote, plans are in motion to open the refinery to individual investors within the next four to five months. He said the initiative is designed to broaden ownership and allow Nigerians to benefit directly from the refinery’s operations.
He also explained that NNPC currently holds a minority stake in the refinery on behalf of the country, accounting for just over seven per cent of the total shares.
On returns for future investors, Dangote said shareholders would be given options on how they receive dividends, noting that payouts could be made either in naira or in foreign currency, reflecting the refinery’s dollar earnings.
Beyond share sales, Dangote highlighted ongoing collaboration with NNPC, saying both organisations are working to deepen operational ties and explore new opportunities across the oil and gas value chain. He added that discussions are also underway on possible partnerships in upstream activities.
Describing the facility as more than just a refinery, Dangote said the complex is evolving into a full industrial hub. He revealed that new projects within the site, including the production of linear alkylbenzene, a key raw material used in detergent manufacturing would position the complex as a major supplier to markets across Africa.
He said production from the additional facilities is expected to meet continental demand and would be delivered within the next 30 months.
Dangote expressed confidence that closer cooperation between his group and NNPC would strengthen Nigeria’s energy sector and deliver long-term value to the country.
