According to a report by Vanguard on Monday, October 6, 2025, the Federal Government has restated its strong support for the Dangote Refinery, describing the massive industrial project as a crucial pillar of Nigeria’s economic future.
This declaration was made during the opening of the Nigerian Economic Summit held in Abuja on Monday, October 6, 2025.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, speaking at the summit, emphasized that the 650,000-barrel-per-day refinery, developed by Aliko Dangote, represents a major step forward in the country’s journey toward self-sufficiency in petroleum refining.
He noted that the success of the $20 billion facility is essential for national development and must not be compromised by labour disputes or political interests.
His comments come in the wake of recent industrial action by the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), which raised concerns over issues related to workforce management at the refinery.
Addressing the situation, Shettima called for calm and urged both the labour union and private sector to adopt a more patriotic and solution-driven approach when handling disagreements that could affect key national projects.
Minister of Budget and National Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, also spoke at the summit, reinforcing the government’s stance on the refinery’s importance.
He pointed out that the project is not just a private investment, but a strategic national asset capable of reshaping Nigeria’s energy sector and reducing its dependence on imported fuel.
Vice President Shettima further highlighted Dangote’s decision to invest within Nigeria rather than abroad, describing it as a significant show of confidence in the country’s potential.
He stressed that investments of this scale should be protected and respected, not hindered by internal challenges.
Shettima said, “Aliko Dangote, he’s not an individual, he’s an institution, and he’s a leading light in Nigeria’s economic parliament. And how we treat this gentleman will determine how outsiders will judge us. If he had invested $10 billion in Microsoft, in Amazon, or in Google, he probably might be worth $70 to $80 billion by now.”
“But he opted to invest in his country, and we owe it to future generations to jealously protect, promote, preserve, and protect the interests of this great Nigeria,” the Vice President added.
The Federal Government called for more collaboration between organised labour and industry stakeholders to maintain economic stability and ensure the long-term success of such transformative initiatives.
The Dangote Refinery is expected to play a central role in Nigeria’s economic diversification and energy security plans. See, More, Here>>>
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