In a landmark move to boost Nigeria’s non-oil export profile, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has announced a strategic partnership with U.S.-based Vinmar Group for the global distribution of polypropylene, a critical industrial polymer. The collaboration is expected to position Nigeria as a competitive player in the international petrochemical market.
The announcement was made during the formal launch of the $2 billion Dangote petrochemical facility located within the Lekki Free Trade Zone, Lagos. Speaking at the event, Executive Director of Dangote Group, Fatima Dangote, emphasized the significance of the partnership.
“We’re pleased to partner with Vinmar to introduce Dangote polypropylene to global markets. This step reinforces our commitment to developing Nigeria’s manufacturing potential and reducing our reliance on imports,” she stated.
The petrochemical plant, which began polypropylene production in March 2025, currently manufactures the product in 25kg bags for domestic use. With an annual installed capacity of 830,000 metric tonnes—500,000 mt and 330,000 mt from two units—the plant is the largest of its kind in Africa and is designed to serve both local and international markets.
Currently, Nigeria imports over 90% of its annual polypropylene requirement, amounting to approximately 250,000 metric tonnes. With the Dangote facility now fully operational, the country aims not only to achieve self-sufficiency but also to become a net exporter of polypropylene-based packaging and industrial materials.
A statement by the Dangote Group highlighted that the facility is also aligned with Nigeria’s push toward economic diversification and industrial self-reliance, as championed under the Tinubu administration’s economic renewal plan.
In a related development, Dangote Packaging Limited (DPL), a subsidiary of the group, has also ramped up its polypropylene bag production capacity, increasing output from 36 million to 52 million units per month. This is part of its broader strategy to penetrate export markets across West, Central, and Southern Africa.
Chairman of DPL, Mr. Robert Ade-Odiachi, commented on the company’s growth trajectory, saying, “With our new production capabilities, DPL is strategically positioned to meet rising demand across the continent. Our focus remains on quality, affordability, and regional market integration.”
Industry analysts have welcomed the deal, describing it as a key development in Nigeria’s quest for industrial transformation. Polypropylene is a versatile polymer used in packaging, textiles, automotive parts, and consumer goods. By tapping into global demand through a reputable distributor like Vinmar, the Dangote Group is expected to generate significant foreign exchange earnings for Nigeria.
Vinmar Group, a Houston-based multinational, has distribution networks in over 100 countries and will leverage its extensive logistics infrastructure to move Dangote’s polypropylene to markets in Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
The development aligns with broader efforts by the Federal Government to reposition Nigeria’s industrial sector. Experts note that the synergy between local production and global distribution could catalyze further investments in Nigeria’s petrochemical value chain.
With operations already underway and export plans advancing, Dangote’s polypropylene initiative represents a pivotal shift in Africa’s industrial landscape—turning Nigeria from a major importer into a competitive global supplier of petrochemical products.