Abuja:Dangote Group has called on Nigeria to enhance its domestic production capabilities, reduce reliance on imports, and increase exports to bolster economic resilience and competitiveness. The appeal was made by Hajia Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman, Regional Director of Dangote Group, during the group’s special day at the 21st Abuja International Trade Fair.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wali-Abdurrahman emphasized the importance of expanding productive capacity and fortifying local supply chains to achieve economic resilience. She highlighted the need for an investment environment conducive to industrial growth, job creation, exports, and sustainable economic development.
She noted that businesses in Nigeria face challenges such as inflationary pressures, exchange-rate adjustments, evolving tax policies, and technological disruptions. Additionally, changing international trade patterns pose new challenges for Nigerian businesses.
Wali-Abdurrahman stated that economic resilience involves not only withstanding difficulties but also adapting, innovating, and continuing to invest in the future. She affirmed Dangote Group’s commitment to building productive capacity across Nigeria and Africa through investments that create jobs and strengthen local supply chains. The group’s investments span various sectors, including cement, sugar, salt, seasoning, packaging, fertilizer, petrochemicals, and petroleum refining.
She pointed out that Dangote Cement has transformed Nigeria from a major cement importer to a significant producer and exporter, supporting employment and sustaining the value chain. The group has also extended its industrial vision to energy, with ongoing construction of a refinery and petrochemicals project in Lamu, Kenya.
Wali-Abdurrahman highlighted the broader economic benefits of local manufacturing, such as creating contracts, expanding distribution, supporting transportation, and developing technical skills among young Nigerians. She called for a predictable and efficient tax environment to encourage compliance and support investment and innovation.
She mentioned that the Dangote Petroleum Refinery currently has a refining capacity of 700,000 barrels per day, with plans to expand to 1.4 million barrels. This expansion is expected to enhance energy security, reduce reliance on imported refined products, and develop local technical expertise.
Wali-Abdurrahman also revealed the group’s Vision 2030, which aims to transform Dangote Industries Ltd. into a $100 billion enterprise through industrial expansion and cross-border investments across Africa.
Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, First Deputy President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), praised Dangote Group for its longstanding partnership with the chamber. He recognized the trade fair as an important economic marketplace that fosters commercial relationships and stimulates economic activity.
Adesugba noted that the partnership between Dangote and ACCI exemplifies the role of responsible corporate participation in promoting commerce and enterprise. He acknowledged Dangote’s investments in sectors like cement, fertilizer, agriculture, refining, and petrochemicals, which support employment creation and reduce import dependence. The ACCI views Dangote as not just an exhibitor and sponsor, but a strategic partner supporting Nigerian businesses, trade, investment, and sustainable economic development.