- Dangote Industries’ new fertilizer plant in Lagos is set to begin production within two weeks, aiming to meet high demand from Nigerian farmers and enhance agricultural productivity across Africa.
- Dangote Refinery, overcoming earlier crude supply challenges, is now gearing up to commence petrol production by August 2024, following collaboration with Nigerian authorities to stabilize operations.
- The initiatives underscore Dangote’s commitment to local agriculture by improving fertilizer availability and supporting Nigeria’s energy sector through enhanced refinery capabilities.
Dangote Refinery Prepares for Fertilizer Production Launch Amidst Previous Challenges
Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Industries Limited, announced on Sunday that the company’s fertilizer production plant is set to commence operations within two weeks.
During a tour of the facility in Lagos with select journalists, Alhaji Dangote emphasized the imminent restart of fertilizer production as a pivotal support for the agricultural sector.
“The demand for fertilizer from Nigerian farmers and across Africa has been significant. We are committed to meeting this demand and enhancing agricultural productivity,” he stated.
He highlighted that the fertilizer plant will boost availability of high-quality fertilizers, crucial for improving crop yields and fostering agricultural sustainability in the region.
Addressing previous challenges, Alhaji Dangote mentioned that the refinery had encountered issues with crude oil supply, impacting its petrol production capacity.
However, these challenges have been resolved with support from the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) and the federal government.
Devakumar Edwin, Vice President of Oil and Gas at DIL, elaborated on past obstacles, noting that international oil companies had hindered efforts to procure local crude, necessitating the importation of crude from distant markets and driving up production costs.
“Despite these challenges, the refinery has persevered, and the upcoming resumption of fertilizer production marks a significant milestone,” Edwin remarked.
He underscored the initiative’s importance in supporting Nigerian agriculture, predicting that it would stabilize fertilizer supply, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure affordable access to effective fertilizers for farmers.
The Dangote Refinery, commissioned in May 2023, has navigated challenges to establish itself as a pivotal player in the agricultural and energy sectors, with plans to commence petrol production by August 2024.