thyssenkrupp Uhde Fertilizer Technology (UFT), the licensing arm of thyssenkrupp Uhde, has signed a major agreement with Dangote Fertiliser Limited (DFL) to supply its advanced UFT® Fluid Bed Granulation Technology for four new urea granulation trains in Nigeria. These units will be part of Dangote’s upcoming fertilizer complexes in Lekki.
Under the contract, UFT will provide the technology license, process design package (PDP) and proprietary equipment, including high-performance granulators and scrubbers.
Massive boost in urea production capacity
Each of the four new granulation trains will have a nameplate capacity of 4,235 mtpd. Once commissioned, Dangote Fertiliser’s total annual urea granule production will increase from 2.65 million tons to more than 8 million tons, making it one of Africa’s most significant fertilizer expansions.
The new facilities will be developed next to DFL’s two existing UFT®-based urea complexes, which have been operating since 2021 with a capacity of 3,850 mtpd each.
Energy-efficient and low-emission design
The new plants will feature UFT®’s low-pressure-drop scrubbing system, designed to minimize energy consumption while meeting stringent global emission standards.
They will also integrate Ammonia Convert Technology (ACT), which converts ammonium sulphate bleed streams into urea granules. This eliminates waste, reduces environmental impact, and offers logistical and commercial benefits for DFL.
Leadership comments
Nadja Håkansson, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde and Member of the Executive Board of thyssenkrupp Decarbon Technologies, said the collaboration highlights a shared vision for sustainable industrial growth:
“We are setting new benchmarks for efficiency and environmental performance in fertilizer production. This partnership reinforces our role as a trusted technology provider driving resilient and sustainable value chains across Africa and globally.”
Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, emphasized the strategic importance of the expansion:
“With the UFT® Fluid Bed Granulation Technology, we are ensuring the production of premium urea fertilizer that meets international standards. This investment strengthens Nigeria’s position as a leading fertilizer producer and supports Africa’s agricultural self-sufficiency.”
UFT® Fluid Bed Granulation Technology: A global benchmark
UFT® Fluid Bed Granulation is one of the world’s most advanced technologies for producing high-quality urea granules.
Today, over 70% of global urea granule output uses this technology, which is deployed in more than 70 plants worldwide, including over 20 facilities with capacities exceeding 3,000 mtpd.
Its performance advantages include:
Low emissions of urea dust and ammonia
High operational reliability
Consistent granule quality
Energy efficiency and low maintenance costs
This technology remains a core pillar of thyssenkrupp Uhde’s fertilizer portfolio.
About Dangote Fertiliser Limited
Dangote Fertiliser Limited provides high-quality fertilizer products and offers agricultural extension services that help farmers improve yields and income. The company aims to support Africa’s long-term growth by utilizing local resources and producing essential goods for the continent’s growing population.
About thyssenkrupp Uhde
thyssenkrupp Uhde is a global leader in engineering, procurement, construction and services for chemical plants. It delivers advanced technologies across fertilizers, base chemicals, polymers, green hydrogen and sustainable chemical value chains.
About thyssenkrupp Uhde Fertilizer Technology
As a specialized licensor, thyssenkrupp Uhde Fertilizer Technology focuses exclusively on urea granulation. With more than 47 years of experience, it offers licensing, PDP development, proprietary equipment, spare parts and plant studies for fertilizer producers worldwide.
