In a major boost for Africa’s fertiliser production capacity, thyssenkrupp Uhde Fertilizer Technology (UFT), a subsidiary of thyssenkrupp Uhde, has signed a strategic licensing agreement with Dangote Fertiliser Limited (DFL) to deploy its UFT Fluid Bed Granulation Technology across four new urea granulation units in Nigeria.
The partnership marks one of the largest single expansions of urea granule capacity on the continent, positioning Nigeria as a key player in the global agricultural value chain.
Under the agreement, thyssenkrupp Uhde will provide technology licensing, a comprehensive Process Design Package (PDP), and proprietary equipment including granulators and scrubbers.
Each of the new plants will boast a nameplate capacity of 4,235 metric tons per day, a move that will triple Dangote Fertiliser Limited’s annual urea granule production from the current 2.65 million tons to more than 8 million tons. The facilities will be constructed in Lekki, Lagos, adjacent to DFL’s existing fertilizer complexes that have operated with UFT technology since 2021.
The new plants are designed to meet global environmental and efficiency standards, integrating UFT’s energy-efficient scrubbing system that minimizes pressure drop and controls dust and ammonia emissions. The units will also incorporate Ammonia Convert Technology (ACT), which recycles ammonium sulfate byproducts into the urea granules — a process that eliminates waste and enhances sustainability.
Speaking on the development, Nadja Haakansson, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde, said: “This partnership with Dangote Fertiliser Limited underscores our shared vision for sustainable industrial development and global food security. By deploying our proven UFT® Fluid Bed Granulation Technology, we are setting new standards in efficiency and environmental stewardship in fertilizer production. We are proud to support DFL in building resilient and future-ready value chains.”
Okay News reports that the expansion will significantly enhance Nigeria’s export potential and agricultural productivity, aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s national industrialization and food security goals.
In his remarks, Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group, described the collaboration as a major step toward achieving Africa’s agricultural self-reliance. “We are pleased to deepen our collaboration with thyssenkrupp Uhde Fertilizer Technology for the expansion of our fertilizer operations in Lekki. This initiative reflects our commitment to agricultural self-sufficiency and industrial progress across Africa. With UFT® technology, we are ensuring the production of high-quality urea fertilizer that meets global standards while reducing environmental impact. This investment further positions Nigeria as a leading fertilizer producer.”
Dangote Fertiliser Limited remains one of Africa’s largest fertilizer producers, driving agricultural transformation and supporting food security across the continent. Meanwhile, thyssenkrupp Uhde’s UFT® Fluid Bed Granulation Technology — used in over 70 percent of global urea granule output — continues to set industry benchmarks for low emissions, high energy efficiency, and product quality.
