The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has appointed David Bird, former head of Oman’s Duqm Refinery, as its new Chief Executive Officer, in a strategic leadership move aimed at scaling up production and accelerating growth.
According to a report by S&P Global on Friday, Bird assumed the role in July 2025 and now leads the fuels and petrochemicals division of the Dangote Group—home to the world’s largest single-train refinery, which began operations last year.
Bird, who previously served as Shell’s head of operations at its Balau Pokom refinery, brings decades of industry expertise to the role. His appointment underscores the company’s renewed focus on overcoming early operational hurdles, streamlining performance, and positioning itself as a major player in Africa’s refining and petrochemical sector.
Our correspondent also observed Bird’s participation in the recently concluded Dangote Leadership Development Program Graduation Ceremony, further highlighting his active involvement in shaping the company’s strategic direction.
S&P Global noted: “Nigeria’s Dangote Group has appointed the former head of Oman’s Duqm refinery as CEO of its petroleum and petrochemicals business as it strives to overcome production challenges and advance its next wave of expansion.”
Despite the leadership transition, Aliko Dangote will remain chairman of the refinery business and CEO of the broader Dangote Group, which also has major operations in cement, fertilizer, and sugar refining.
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