Dr. Lukman Akande Bolaji’s GAIL refinery set to transform Ogun state into energy hub

July 28, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

A new era dawns for Nigeria’s petroleum industry as Gasoline Associates International Limited (GAIL) prepares to launch a state-of-the-art private refinery in Ogun State.

The refinery, to be located in Ipokia, is poised to transform the country’s energy landscape and cement Ogun’s status as a hub for industrial innovation in West Africa.

According to Dr. Lukman Akande Bolaji, Chairman and CEO of GAIL, “This project embodies a rare blend of technical expertise and visionary leadership.” With over 25 years of experience spanning IT, banking, energy, and international business consulting, Dr. Bolaji is well-equipped to steer this ambitious venture.

The refinery will initially process 100,000 barrels of crude oil per day, with plans to scale up to 450,000 barrels daily.

This will not only deliver essential fuels like PMS, AGO, LPG, and Jet Fuel but also cater to both domestic and international markets.

As Dr. Bolaji aptly puts it, “What sets me apart is not merely the scale of my achievements but the values that underpin them: faith, integrity, and a deep sense of purpose.” His commitment to partnerships that foster economic diplomacy and sustainable development is evident in his engagement with the Nigeria-American Chamber of Commerce.

The GAIL refinery promises to be a game-changer for Nigeria, reducing dependence on imported petroleum products and ushering in a new era of energy self-sufficiency.

As Dr. Bolaji notes, “It is a legacy in the making—a promise of shared prosperity, national renewal, and a future where energy becomes a catalyst for progress.”

With this visionary project, Dr. Bolaji is not just refining oil; he’s refining hope for a brighter future in South West region.