The Socio-cultural group, Ethnic Youth Leaders Forum, has commended Aliko Dangote for his visionary leadership and historic investment in Nigeria’s energy sector, following the landmark achievement of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals in making Nigeria a net exporter of refined petrol for the first time.
In a statement issued Sunday in Abuja, the group described the development as a “defining moment in Nigeria’s economic history,” noting that it marks a decisive end to decades of dependence on imported refined petroleum products despite the country’s vast crude oil reserves.
According to available data, Nigeria crossed a major milestone in March 2026 when the Lekki-based refinery exported 44,000 barrels per day (bpd) of petrol, surpassing national imports which dropped to 41,000 bpd—the lowest level ever recorded, as reported by global market intelligence firm Kpler. The surplus of approximately 3,000 bpd signals a structural shift in the nation’s energy dynamics.
The group in a statement by its deputy spokesperson, Mirabel Ashara emphasized that for decades, Nigeria as Africa’s largest crude oil producer faced the paradox of exporting crude oil while importing refined products due to inadequate domestic refining capacity.
They said the emergence of the Dangote Refinery has now reversed that trend, strengthening energy security, conserving foreign exchange, and boosting national pride.
The Ethnic Youth Leaders Forum further highlighted that crude supply to the 650,000 bpd refinery rose to about 565,000 bpd in March, reflecting strong operational capacity and sustained scale since the commencement of operations in late 2023.
They also acknowledged the role of government policies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which they said created an enabling environment for private sector participation and restored investor confidence in the oil and gas sector.
“The achievement recorded by the Dangote Refinery is not only a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of Nigerian enterprise but also a clear indication that with the right policies and leadership, Nigeria can attain industrial self-sufficiency and global competitiveness,” the statement read.
The group called on other investors to emulate such bold initiatives that have the potential to transform critical sectors of the economy, create jobs, and drive sustainable development.