President Tinubu Commissions Roads, Visits Dangote Refinery with Bill Gates

 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a landmark visit that underscores Nigeria’s growing industrial stature, toured the $20 billion Dangote Refinery and Petrochemical Plant alongside American business magnate and Microsoft co-founder, Bill Gates, and Nigerian billionaire philanthropist, Femi Otedola. The high-profile delegation was received by Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s leading industrialist and the visionary behind the refinery project.

The Dangote Refinery, situated in the Lekki Free Trade Zone, has been hailed as the largest single-train refinery in the world — a feat of engineering and ambition often referred to as the “eighth wonder” of the modern era. With a capacity to process 650,000 barrels of crude oil per day, the facility is set to redefine Nigeria’s position in the global energy landscape while significantly reducing the country’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products.

President Tinubu’s visit to the facility was not just ceremonial but a strong reaffirmation of his administration’s commitment to industrialization and strategic partnerships. Joined by globally respected figures like Gates and Otedola, the visit highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing Africa’s development agenda through innovation, investment, and infrastructure.

During the tour, President Tinubu also commissioned several newly completed road projects in the Lekki corridor. These critical transport arteries are designed to ease access to the burgeoning industrial hub and support the efficient movement of goods and people. The road infrastructure complements the larger vision of a connected, productive, and globally competitive economic zone.

The President’s visit carries deep historical and strategic significance. Over two decades ago, as Governor of Lagos State, Tinubu championed the idea of developing the Lekki coastline into a major economic hub. Today, that vision has come to life in the form of the Lekki Free Trade Zone — a vibrant nexus of commerce, industry, and global investment.