New LAB plant targets import substitution, lower production costs and stronger local manufacturing across West Africa….
Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced plans to begin the production of surfactants, a key raw material used in detergent manufacturing, in a move expected to strengthen local industry and reduce reliance on imports.
Surfactants are the active ingredients that enable detergents to create foam and remove dirt, and are widely used in household cleaning, garment care and personal hygiene products.
Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Refinery, David Bird, disclosed the development on Wednesday during a news conference, stating that the company has reached advanced stages in securing commercial agreements to install a Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB) plant, which will produce surfactants locally.
Bird said the initiative could significantly cut Nigeria’s dependence on imported raw materials, reduce foreign exchange demand, lower retail prices of detergents and improve profitability for manufacturers.
“I am pleased to announce that we have been in advanced discussions with a licenser and are close to finalising the commercial terms for installing a Linear Alkyl Benzene plant. This will produce surfactants, which are the key ingredient that creates foam in detergents,” he said.
According to him, the refinery evaluates investment opportunities based on population-driven demand, noting that essential products such as fuels, lubricants and detergents should remain widely accessible rather than becoming luxury goods.
He pointed out that Nigeria and the broader West African region have large populations that continue to drive strong demand for cleaning and hygiene products.
“We are pursuing import substitution. Currently, virtually all detergents consumed in West Africa rely on imported inputs. Establishing an LAB plant will allow us to produce surfactants locally and support domestic manufacturing,” Bird said.
He explained that the project is expected to stimulate local production of detergents and other cleaning products, while strengthening industrial capacity across the region.
Bird added that the investment reflects Dangote Refinery’s broader strategy of reinvesting to enhance economic sustainability and promote greater self-sufficiency for Nigeria and West Africa.
