Euphemia Ojukwu
In a passionate appeal, former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi, has urged the Nigerian Government to offer strong support to Dangote Refinery, noting the economic potential of the investment in the country.
Obi’s call followed the ongoing face-off between Dangote Refinery and some Federal Government agencies over the quality of the products and other regulatory issues.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWriting on his X handle (formerly Twitter), on Tuesday, 23rd July 2024, Obi stated that the Dangote Refinery is not just a business venture but a cornerstone for Nigeria’s economic recovery.
He stressed that the refinery, with its projected $21 billion annual revenue and the potential to create over 100,000 jobs, is essential for stabilising Nigeria’s fuel supply and boosting foreign exchange reserves. This, he argued, could significantly mitigate the current economic challenges faced by millions of Nigerians.
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The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election also highlighted the broader impact of the refinery on various sectors, noting Dangote’s extensive investments across industries such as cement, sugar, and petrochemicals. He emphasised that Aliko Dangote’s efforts are not merely business pursuits but vital contributions to national development.
Obi said Federal Government must prioritise resolving the disputes between Dangote Industries and its agencies, as any delay or obstruction could stymie economic growth and job creation.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s economic decline, Obi drew a stark contrast between the nation’s robust GDP growth rates of 6.72% from 1999 to 2014 and the subsequent decline to 2.79% in 2015, which plunged Nigeria into recession in 2016. He painted a grim picture of the current economic landscape, where unemployment is escalating, food inflation has soared to over 43%, and many businesses shutting down.
He criticised the current leadership for focusing on personal interests rather than addressing the pressing issues that threaten the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians. He called for a shift from a consumption-based economy to one that promotes production, urging leaders to prioritise inclusive growth, education, and poverty alleviation.
In his plea, Obi highlighted the Dangote Refinery as a beacon of hope that could drive Nigeria towards economic stability and prosperity.
He urged citizens to rally behind this project, emphasising that the success of Dangote Industries is intrinsically linked to Nigeria’s national interests and the broader economic well-being of Africa.
Obi’s stance is a clarion call for immediate and decisive action from the Federal Government, urging them to see beyond bureaucratic hurdles and support initiatives that promise a brighter future for Nigeria and its people.
