Bamboo app crashes under traffic surge as investors rush to access Dangote Refinery IPO

The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemical initial public offering (IPO) has sparked a record digital race among Nigerian stockbrokers, banks and fintech companies to participate in what could be the largest retail-driven share sale in the country. With Aliko Dangote insisting that the IPO attract up to 10 million subscribers, the transaction's advisers focused on digital distribution, resulting in more apps and digital channels than any previous Nigerian IPO.

The N2.15 trillion public offer launched on September 14, 2026, can be subscribed through about 55 approved electronic application channels, including apps operated by 20 banks, two mobile money companies, the Nigerian Exchange's NGX Invest platform, and 32 fintech and investment firms. This unprecedented digital distribution network reflects Dangote's vision of expanding retail participation in Nigeria's capital market, requiring brokers to onboard millions of new investors.

The competition among participating firms is driven by the potential to acquire new customers and establish long-term relationships, as the capital raised will support the refinery's expansion plans. The IPO's success could serve as a major capital-formation catalyst and test Nigeria's capacity to digitally onboard millions of investors for future listings.