Engr. Sheriff Babatunde Lamidi

The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, under the leadership of its Chairman, Engr. Adigun Ibrahim Olalekan (MNSE), through its Directorate of Petroleum and Solid Minerals, has commended the groundbreaking contributions of the Dangote Refinery to Nigeria’s economic and social development while applauding the transformative vision of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government.
In a recent appraisal spearheaded by the Directorate, the council praised the refinery for its transformative impact on the nation’s industrial landscape, citing its contributions to production capacity, employment generation, and energy security. The NYCN also acknowledged President Tinubu’s support and progressive policies that have fostered an enabling environment for landmark projects like the Dangote Refinery to thrive.
Dangote Refinery: Boosting Economic Growth

The Dangote Refinery, located in Lekki, Lagos, is the largest single-train refinery in the world. With a capacity to process 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day, the refinery is projected to reduce Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products, conserve foreign exchange, and spur industrial growth.

Speaking on the economic benefits, Engr. Sheriff Babatunde Lamidi, Director of Petroleum and Solid Minerals, stated:
“The Dangote Refinery represents a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s industrial history. This project underscores the potential of private sector innovation when supported by visionary government policies. It is a bold step toward achieving economic independence.”
The NYCN praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for recognizing the strategic importance of the Dangote Refinery and providing the necessary support to ensure its successful launch. The council highlighted Tinubu’s ongoing commitment to fostering a transformative economy by championing policies that encourage investment and industrial development.
Employment and Human Capital Development

The NYCN lauded the refinery’s substantial contribution to employment generation, having provided thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities to Nigerians. Moreover, through robust training and capacity-building initiatives, the project has equipped many professionals with world-class skills in the oil and gas industry.
This achievement, the council noted, is a testament to the Tinubu-led government’s focus on building a skilled workforce to drive the economy forward. The administration’s policies on education and training have complemented private sector efforts in developing Nigeria’s human capital.

President Tinubu’s Vision for Economic Transformation
The NYCN emphasized that the supportive policies of the current administration have not only accelerated the completion of the Dangote Refinery but also set the stage for other transformative initiatives.

From the unification of exchange rates to the removal of fuel subsidies, the Tinubu administration has laid a strong foundation for economic growth and stability. These bold moves, the NYCN observed, are necessary steps to ensure that Nigeria becomes a hub for industrialization and investment.

Sheriff Lamidi noted:
“President Tinubu’s administration has shown unwavering commitment to economic transformation. By supporting projects like the Dangote Refinery, the government has demonstrated a clear vision for creating jobs, boosting production, and fostering economic independence.”
Environmental Sustainability and Community Development
The Dangote Refinery’s adherence to eco-friendly practices and its investment in community development projects also drew commendation from the NYCN. This aligns with the government’s broader agenda for sustainable development and social responsibility.

A Call to Action
The Directorate called on all stakeholders to rally behind the government’s policies and support private sector initiatives that promote economic growth. It urged other industrialists to emulate Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s visionary approach to nation-building.
“We must recognize and celebrate the synergy between visionary leadership in governance and the innovation of the private sector,” Lamidi said. “This collaboration is the key to unlocking Nigeria’s full potential as an industrial powerhouse.”

NYCN’s Commitment to National Development
The NYCN Lagos Chapter reaffirmed its dedication to fostering youth engagement, innovation, and sustainable development across sectors. It pledged continued support for initiatives that align with its mission to empower the youth and build a prosperous future for Nigeria.
As Nigeria stands at the crossroads of economic transformation, the Dangote Refinery and the policies of the Tinubu administration offer a blueprint for achieving a self-sufficient, prosperous, and globally competitive nation.