Lokpobiri backs Dangote Refinery, seeks more local industrial investments

By Adebayo Obajemu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting indigenous investors in Nigeria’s petroleum sector, describing the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as a model for industrial transformation, job creation and value retention in the economy.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources ( Oil), Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, gave the assurance during a working visit to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals complex at the Lekki Free Trade Zone in Lagos.

Lokpobiri, who was accompanied by the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Rt. Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo; the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Patience Oyekunle; and other government officials, said the visit provided an opportunity to assess the progress of one of Nigeria’s largest indigenous industrial investments.Oil & Gas

“The visit provided a valuable opportunity to assess the remarkable progress being made by one of Nigeria’s foremost indigenous industrial investments and to appreciate its contribution to national economic development,” Lokpobiri said.

He reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to create an enabling environment for local investors capable of transforming Nigeria’s industrial landscape.Africans & Diaspora

“The Federal Government remains committed to encouraging and supporting capable local operators whose investments create jobs, strengthen industrial capacity, and retain greater value within the country,” he stated.

Commending the refinery’s achievements, the minister said, “Dangote is demonstrating that this vision is achievable by delivering world-class infrastructure with significant economic impact.”

Lokpobiri also urged other Nigerian investors to emulate the Dangote model by investing in large-scale industrial projects that would deepen local manufacturing capacity and reduce dependence on imports.

“As we acknowledge this milestone, we also encourage other indigenous investors to pursue similar transformative projects that will deepen Nigeria’s industrial base, enhance self-sufficiency, and accelerate sustainable economic growth,” he added.