Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, strikes fertilizer deal with German firm

German engineering group thyssenkrupp Uhde Fertilizer Technology (UFT) has signed a new licensing agreement with Dangote Fertilizer Limited (DFL), owned by Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, to expand urea production capacity in Nigeria. 

Under the deal, UFT will provide its fluid bed granulation technology, a complete process design package, and proprietary equipment, including granulators and scrubbers for four new urea granulation units.

Expanding production capacity 

Each new unit will produce about 4,235 metric tons of urea per day, raising DFL’s total output from 2.65 million tons to more than 8 million tons annually. The facilities will be built in Lekki, next to the company’s existing fertilizer plants, which have used UFT technology since 2021.

The expansion aims to meet Africa’s rising demand for fertilizers and reduce reliance on imports. Dangote’s existing complex already produces 3,850 metric tons per day, making it one of the largest fertilizer operations in Africa.

Focus on efficiency and environmental standards

UFT’s system includes an energy-efficient scrubbing process that reduces emissions and limits dust and ammonia release to meet global environmental standards. The design also integrates Ammonia Convert Technology (ACT), which reuses byproducts to create cleaner, more sustainable fertilizer production. 

Globally, more than 70 percent of urea granules are produced using UFT technology; the company’s innovations are recognized for helping secure food supplies while keeping emissions below regulatory limits. 

Shared commitment to sustainability

“This partnership reflects our shared vision for sustainable industrial growth and food security,” said Nadja Haakansson, chief executive of thyssenkrupp Uhde. “By applying our proven UFT technology, we’re setting new benchmarks in efficiency and environmental responsibility.” 

Dangote said the agreement reinforces his group’s drive for agricultural self-sufficiency and industrial expansion across Africa. “With UFT technology, we’re producing high-quality fertilizer that meets international standards while protecting the environment,” he said. 

Expanding beyond cement 

Bloomberg estimates Dangote’s net worth at about $30.5 billion. Having recently stepped down as chairman of Dangote Cement Plc, he’s now channeling investment into fertilizers and refining, part of his effort to reduce Africa’s dependence on imports. 

DFL is also preparing for a potential listing on the Nigerian Exchange, where it could be valued above $3 billion. The company’s 500-hectare complex in Ibeju Lekki already produces 3 million metric tons of urea yearly, twice Nigeria’s domestic demand. Last month, Dangote unveiled a $2.5 billion fertilizer project in Ethiopia, deepening his commitment to Africa’s food security.