Speaking during the 2025 Media Week of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos State Council, themed “Unlocking Opportunities for Businesses in a Challenging Economy: The Role of the Media / Roadmaps to Energy Security in Nigeria,” Esan described the refinery as a “national landmark” that is driving GDP growth, creating jobs, strengthening Nigeria’s energy supply, and positioning the country as a regional energy hub.
Since beginning operations nearly two years ago, the refinery has significantly reduced Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products, including Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel. Esan highlighted that fuel imports fell by 1.54% in the first quarter of 2025, with spending dropping from $2.6 billion in Q1 2024 to $1.2 billion in Q1 2025.
“Dangote Refinery has saved Nigeria over ₦10 billion annually in foreign exchange by replacing imports with local production. It has significantly curtailed oil imports and created measurable economic impact,” he stated.
Esan also revealed plans to scale up production from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day, noting growing global interest in refinery products, including jet fuel, from buyers such as Saudi Aramco and US companies.
Describing the refinery’s massive scale, he said it covers an area roughly seven times the size of Victoria Island, Lagos, requiring at least five hours to tour by car. He also emphasized the economic ripple effect of the refinery, citing the acquisition of 4,000 CNG trucks for product distribution, which has created 24,000 jobs.
Speaking on the role of the media in energy security, Esan urged journalists to report accurately on sector developments and visit the refinery for firsthand understanding. “When some people are bent on pulling it down, you will understand that this is a national asset we must protect,” he said.
NUJ Lagos Chairman, Adeleye Ajayi, described the lecture as a valuable opportunity to examine Nigeria’s energy sector challenges and recognized federal efforts to harness local production for national development. The Chairman of the Press Week Committee, Wale Akodu, reflected on past fuel crises, noting that issues like scarcity and panic buying have largely subsided due to improved local production.
The presentation underscores the transformative impact of Dangote Refinery on Nigeria’s economy, energy security, and employment landscape, highlighting the refinery as a cornerstone of national industrial progress.