Dangote Refinery shows Africa can execute at scale — Sanwo-Olu
Abdullateef Fowewe
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the Dangote Refinery in Lekki as proof that Africa can deliver projects on a massive scale.
Sanwo-Olu spoke during the Lagos-New York 2026 Learning Journey, hosted by the Aliko Dangote Foundation and the Forum of Young Global Leaders.
Reflecting on the transformation of the Lekki site, the governor said the land was reclaimed from open water about a decade ago.
“A decade ago, the ground beneath our feet was open water. Everything built here had to be imagined, funded and reclaimed from the sea. That is the essence of Lagos. We do not wait for perfect conditions, we build the ground first,” he said.
The Dangote Refinery, which has a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, was cited by the governor as an example of Africa’s ability to execute large-scale projects.
Sanwo-Olu praised Aliko Dangote for investing in Lagos despite the high costs and challenges associated with the project.
“Producing 650,000 barrels a day, this refinery proves Africa can execute at a massive scale,” he said.
The governor also highlighted major infrastructure projects along the Lekki corridor, including the Lekki Deep Sea Port, Lekki Free Zone, Blue Line rail and the proposed airport.
According to him, the projects are aimed at creating a smoother environment for future investors and ensuring that new businesses do not have to start from scratch.
“The true test of this refinery is whether the next builder has a smoother path,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He added that Lagos was already confronting the pressures expected to shape Africa’s future, including population growth, energy demands, infrastructure needs and youth unemployment.
Sanwo-Olu urged African leaders and global partners to move beyond discussions and convert conversations into practical partnerships.
“Africa is not waiting for permission to build. We have already started and now is the time to turn conversations into partnerships,” he said.
