Amanze Chinonye
Aliko Dangote, President and CEO of Dangote Group, has publicly commended the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, for his decisive role in enabling the construction of the Dangote Refinery in Ibeju‑Lekki, Lagos.
Speaking at the launch of the Dangote Group’s Vision 2030 initiative and the announcement of a ₦100 billion annual education support fund, Dangote revealed that the refinery project faced early delays due to the presence of 19 shrines on the construction site. Workers reportedly hesitated to begin foundational work because of cultural and spiritual sensitivities surrounding the shrines.
Dangote said the Ooni personally intervened, visiting the site and ordering the removal of all the shrines. According to Dangote, the traditional ruler remarked:
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The billionaire industrialist described the Ooni’s intervention as a turning point that boosted confidence among workers and the local community, enabling construction to proceed. “Without that singular act,” Dangote said, “I don’t believe the refinery could have been built.”
The Dangote Refinery, located within the Dangote Industries Free Zone, is noted as the world’s largest single-train refinery, with a processing capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. The facility is expected to significantly reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported refined petroleum products.
Dangote’s remarks come amid growing attention to the intersection of cultural heritage and industrial development, with the story sparking public discussion on how traditional leadership can facilitate large-scale infrastructure projects in Nigeria.
The Dangote Group also used the event to unveil its Vision 2030 initiative, which includes plans to expand its philanthropic activities, particularly in education, aiming to support over 1.3 million students annually through the Aliko Dangote Foundation.
Prime Business Africa reports that Dangote’s acknowledgment of the Ooni’s role underscores the enduring influence of traditional rulers in shaping both economic and social landscapes in Nigeria.
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.
