Dangote Refinery Turns Nigeria into a Maritime Goldmine: Experts Highlight Jobs and Trade Opportunities
Nigeria’s Dangote Refinery is rapidly reshaping the country’s maritime landscape, according to industry experts. Maritime authorities say the facility’s strategic coastal location is unlocking vast opportunities for international shipping, local vessel ownership, and skilled job creation. Experts emphasize that prioritizing marine transport and Nigerian-operated vessels could make the nation a key hub for coastal and global trade.
Captain Tajudeen Alao, National President of the Nigeria Association of Master Mariners (NAMM), described the refinery as a “powerful engine of wealth creation.” He highlighted the refinery’s deep-water access, which allows foreign ships to load products directly for export while also supporting coastal shipping to cities like Lagos, Port Harcourt, Warri, and Calabar. Alao stressed that using ships instead of trucks for petroleum product evacuation is safer, more efficient, and cost-effective.
Since its first year of operation, over 600 vessels have called at the refinery, presenting opportunities across the maritime value chain—from crewing and vessel ownership to port operations and auxiliary services. Alao urged financial institutions to support local operators with funding, allowing them to acquire vessels and expand participation. He also noted that inspection, certification, and compliance procedures provide additional employment for Nigerian mariners, surveyors, and inspectors.
Maritime expert Captain (Dr.) Michael Ifesemen echoed these views, saying the refinery has created “vast opportunities” for skilled labor and port services. He explained that rising vessel traffic is expanding local shipping participation, boosting West African coastal trade, and deepening the Cabotage regime. By deploying Nigerian-owned vessels, the country can retain taxable income, reduce reliance on foreign ships, and strengthen local content in shipping.
Experts agree that the refinery’s long-term impact extends beyond terminals, stimulating exports, imports, and regional trade. Ifesemen added that feeding the refinery with locally produced crude and exporting refined products is more profitable than exporting crude alone, enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness in the global oil market. The Dangote Refinery, they conclude, is more than a refinery—it is fast becoming Nigeria’s gateway to maritime wealth.
source: The Sun