Billionaire entrepreneur Femi Otedola celebrated the official commencement of production at the Dangote Refinery, emphasizing its significance for Nigeria and the West African region.
In a congratulatory message posted on his verified Twitter handle, @realFemiOtedola, he highlighted the refinery’s potential to meet Nigeria’s energy demands, ensure refined petrol independence, and foster prosperity across West Africa.
Contrary to concerns about environmental impact, especially in the face of global climate challenges, Otedola assured that the 650,000 barrels per day refinery complex would champion environmental sustainability. Expressing his admiration for Aliko Dangote, whom he fondly referred to as his “bestie,” Otedola lauded the $20 billion refinery as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’ and a beacon of hope for millions in Nigeria and Africa.
Describing the Dangote Petrochemical Complex as more than an industrial milestone, Otedola praised it as a testament to the visionary leadership of Aliko Dangote, one of Africa’s finest patriots. He conveyed, “It’s a testament to the visionary leadership and relentless pursuit of excellence of one of Africa’s finest and most dogged patriots.”
Highlighting the refinery’s benefits, Otedola emphasized, “By meeting our requirements for all refined petroleum products, it will champion energy security and independence for our nation, acting as a catalyst for a new era of prosperity for the subcontinent. It promises economic transformation for Nigerians today and for generations to come.”
Delving into the environmental sustainability aspect, he explained, “With its carbon capture technologies and storage processes, it will capture up to 90%+ of the CO2 emitted, playing a significant role in reducing Well-to-tank carbon emissions from crude oil maritime transportation, and aiding Nigeria in achieving its target for net-zero emissions by 2060.”
Providing additional insights, Otedola stated, “The refinery recycles 100 per cent of its water. The heat generated in the process is fully harnessed to produce 50MW of power. Dangote is also producing Euro 5 to replace the outdated Euro 5 dumped in Africa, contributing to environmental conservation.”
Otedola praised Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Plant for its commitment to environmental responsibility. The recent receipt of one million barrels of crude cargo at its terminal in Lekki, Lagos marked a significant step forward, demonstrating the refinery’s dedication to sustainable practices.