By Milcah Tanimu

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery, with a capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, has started a test-run for the production of Premium Motor Spirit (petrol), ahead of its anticipated full-scale operation. According to a recent report by Reuters, the refinery is now in the test phase and aims to commence full operations by mid-September 2024.

The refinery’s timeline has faced several delays. Initially, it was projected to start petrol production in June 2024, but this was pushed to July and then to August. The latest update from the Nigerian government, conveyed by Finance Minister Wale Edun, suggests a September start date.

The IIR Energy report notes that there may be further extensions to the commencement date. The refinery’s owner, Aliko Dangote, has yet to comment officially on the current test-run phase.

This development is significant as it marks a step toward Nigeria’s goal of reducing reliance on imported petrol. The refinery has faced challenges, including a crude supply crisis, which may impact the timing of its full operational launch.