Dangote Refinery to Begin Production of Materials for Detergent Manufacturing

Dangote refinery says it will soon commence the production of surfactants for detergent manufacturing in Nigeria.

Surfactants are a primary component of cleaning detergents, used in households for cleaning surfaces, garments, as well as for personal hygiene.

David Bird, chief executive officer (CEO) of the Dangote refinery, announced the plan on Wednesday during a news conference.

He said the refinery has concluded the commercial terms for installing a linear alkyl benzene (LAB) plant to manufacture surfactants.

The move could reduce dependence on imported inputs for many producers, cut foreign exchange demand for raw materials, lower retail prices, and improve manufacturers’ bottom lines.

“I am very pleased today to announce that we have been in deep discussions with a licenser and just about to finalize the commercial terms for installing a linear alphabet benzene plant,” he said.

“And this is the surfactant; this is what makes the bubbles in detergent. So, as you know, with Dangote, we evaluate business opportunities by what demand is driven by pure population.”

Bird said the country needs fuels, lubricants, and detergents, adding that these products should not be luxury items.

He noted that Nigeria and the wider West African region have a large population that is driving strong demand for them.

“And we want to go for import substitution, and right now, 100% of the detergents used in West Africa are imported, so we will be building an LAB plant in order to make the surfactant,” Bird said.

He said the move is expected to boost local production of detergents and cleaning products.

Bird added that the decision represents another example of reinvestment aimed at strengthening the economic sustainability and self-sufficiency of Nigeria and West Africa.