Kenyan presidential aspirant Patrick Osoi has told Nigerian billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote not to rush the construction of his proposed oil refinery in Kenya, saying he would prioritise local investors if elected president in 2027.
Osoi made the remarks while addressing supporters at a Lions Movement event, where he argued that Kenyan entrepreneurs had the capacity to establish a refinery without relying on the Nigerian industrialist.
“Don’t rush to start the refinery; when I’m sworn in as Kenya’s President next year, you’ll be heading back to Nigeria,” Osoi reportedly said.
He maintained that Kenya had businesspeople capable of undertaking the project and suggested that his administration would favour domestic participation in major industrial investments.
His comments come after Dangote and Kenyan President William Ruto participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for a proposed $16 billion refinery in Lamu on September 30, 2026. The facility is planned to process up to 700,000 barrels of crude oil per day and serve markets across East Africa.
The project is expected to strengthen regional refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported petroleum products. However, it has also faced concerns over land rights, compensation and potential environmental effects.
Osoi’s statement reflects his position on local ownership and participation in Kenya’s industrial development. His remarks, however, do not amount to an official government decision, and he would have to win the 2027 presidential election before leading the country.
Dangote has yet to publicly respond to Osoi’s reported comments.