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Former Oman Duqm Refinery boss to lead 650,000b/d facility
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His appointment aims to address technical challenges and boost global competitiveness
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited has appointed David Bird, a globally recognised oil and gas executive and former head of Oman’s Duqm Refinery, as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Bird replaces Devakumar V.G. Edwin as the group aims to scale up operations and overcome recent production challenges at the 650,000 barrels-per-day refinery, the largest single-train refinery in the world.
According to a report by S&P Global, Bird’s appointment became effective in July 2025 and was formally communicated to staff through an internal memo signed by Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, on July 29.
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Bird brings over 25 years of experience across the oil and gas value chain from upstream, LNG and downstream operations, including strategic positions held at Shell, Santos, and most recently as CEO of OQ8, a joint venture between Oman Oil Company and Kuwait Petroleum International.
He is a graduate of Imperial College London, with a Master’s in Mechanical Engineering, and also holds an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business.
Bird’s appointment comes amid reported “design issues” and unit upsets that have slowed the refinery’s ramp-up process, alongside challenges posed by Nigeria’s difficult business environment.
According to Dangote Group, Bird’s technical depth and leadership credentials will drive the refinery’s transition into a globally competitive player.
“David Bird is well-positioned to lead the Petroleum Refinery into its next phase of growth, operational excellence, and long-term value creation,” the company said.
Bird is now tasked with heading the fuels and petrochemicals division of the conglomerate, driving efficiency, output, and expansion across Africa.
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In a LinkedIn update, Bird said his goal is to push the Dangote Refinery beyond the Nigerian market, making it a key player across the continent and globally.
Despite the change in leadership, Alhaji Aliko Dangote will remain as Chairman of the Refinery and CEO of the overall Dangote Group, which also includes major operations in cement, sugar, and fertilisers.
