June 3 (THEWILL) — Dangote Refinery is positioning itself as a major player in the global aviation fuel market, unveiling plans to add 700,000 barrels per day (bpd) of refining capacity by 2028 as it seeks to capitalise on rising export demand, growing production volumes, and disruptions to global fuel supply chains.
The refinery’s Chief Executive Officer, David Bird, disclosed the expansion plan while speaking at the S&P Global Energy Middle East Petroleum and Gas Conference in London. According to Bird, the refinery already has a substantial surplus of jet fuel production and is well placed to meet growing demand in international markets.
He noted that aviation fuel consumption across Africa remains relatively low compared to other regions, creating significant export opportunities for the Lagos-based refinery. Bird said the company has built a reputation as a dependable supplier capable of delivering high-quality products competitively to customers around the world.
“We’re very grateful to be seen as a reliable, high-quality and dependable supplier able to land our product competitively all over the world”, Bird stated.
Providing details of the expansion, Bird revealed that the company has already secured long-lead equipment and is in the process of awarding construction contracts. “We will bring 700,000 barrels per day of fully complex refining capacity on stream by the end of 2028”, he added.
The expansion forms part of Dangote Refinery’s broader growth strategy. The facility currently processes 650,000 bpd, making it the largest refinery in Africa. With the planned addition, total refining capacity could eventually reach 2.1 million bpd, according to Bird. The company is also evaluating the possibility of building another refinery in East Africa to support its long-term ambitions.
The refinery’s expansion comes as geopolitical tensions involving Iran and concerns over shipping through the Strait of Hormuz continue to reshape global fuel trade flows. These disruptions have created opportunities for refiners outside the Gulf region to gain market share, particularly in jet fuel, strengthening Dangote Refinery’s prospects in international energy markets.
Ogochukwu Onwaeze is a writer specializing in business and economic journalism. At THEWILL News Media, she translates market trends, financial developments, and policy shifts into clear and engaging stories.
