Amanze Chinonye
Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote has publicly accused the CEO of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), Engr. Farouk Ahmed, of corruption, economic sabotage, and lavish personal spending, claiming that Ahmed paid $5 million in tuition fees for his children’s schooling in Switzerland.
Dangote made the allegation during a press briefing in Lagos, saying the payment covered four children over a six-year period. He described the act as evidence of misappropriation of resources and called for federal authorities to investigate and prosecute the NMDPRA chief.
In addition to the school fees allegation, Dangote accused Ahmed and the NMDPRA of undermining Nigeria’s local refining sector by continuing to issue fuel import licences, a practice he described as economic sabotage against domestic producers, including his own $20 billion Dangote Refinery.
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“This is not just about personal wealth; it is about policies and actions that threaten domestic refining, frustrate investment, and ultimately harm the Nigerian economy,” Dangote said.
The billionaire also announced a reduction in petrol prices at select Dangote filling stations, framing the gesture as part of his commitment to easing the burden on consumers despite ongoing disputes with regulators.
The NMDPRA has previously dismissed allegations of corruption against its CEO, describing earlier petitions and claims as “smear campaigns”. While Dangote’s claims have drawn attention, no official evidence has yet been presented linking public funds to the school fees, and no government investigation outcome has been publicly released as of 15 December 2025.
The controversy comes amid a long-running dispute between Dangote and the NMDPRA over fuel import policies, domestic refining support, and regulatory oversight a conflict widely reported to have significant implications for Nigeria’s oil sector.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
