Dangote Industries Limited has announced its ambitious strategic goal of achieving Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in key economic sectors, including cement, agriculture, mining, and petroleum. This declaration was made by Tunde Mabogunje, Regional Sales Director of Dangote Cement Plc for Lagos/Ogun, during the prestigious Dangote Day at the 2024 Gateway International Trade Fair in Abeokuta.
Mabogunje emphasized the conglomerate’s commitment to prioritizing local manufacturing over importation, aiming to boost economic growth, reduce dependence on foreign goods, and create job opportunities. “Our focus is to enhance Nigeria’s capacity to produce what it consumes, particularly in sectors where we operate, to stabilize the economy and create jobs,” he stated. This approach aligns with the government’s economic diversification agenda and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) initiative.
The trade fair’s theme, “Achieving Economic Prosperity Through Business Connection, Trade, and Investment,” resonated with the Dangote Group’s mission, as they focus on manufacturing goods using Nigeria’s abundant raw materials. Mabogunje highlighted the group’s vast investments across various sectors, adding value to raw materials and transforming them into finished products. For instance, Dangote Cement Plc has invested heavily in cement production, making Nigeria self-sufficient in cement and a net exporter to neighboring countries.
He also mentioned the significant impact of Dangote’s food subsidiaries, including Dangote Sugar Refinery, NASCON Allied Industries (Dangote Salt), and Dangote Rice, which provide jobs through various schemes. The Dangote Sugar Refinery’s out-grower and backward integration schemes have created jobs for thousands of farmers in host communities, while NASCON Allied Industries has empowered local salt farmers and improved food security.
The Ogun State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA) praised the Dangote Group as the driving force behind the Gateway International Trade Fair. OGUNCCIMA President, Engr Mike Akingbade, commended Dangote Industries Limited for its consistent support, saying, “The committed support of the Dangote Group is the elixir that activates the trade fair, and OGUNCCIMA is eternally grateful for the wonderful gesture.” Akingbade emphasized the importance of forging robust business connections, participating in trade activities, and making strategic investments to unlock new markets, stimulate economic growth, and enhance overall prosperity.
The Gateway International Trade Fair provides a platform for businesses to showcase their products, connect with potential customers, and explore investment opportunities. The event has attracted exhibitors from various sectors, including manufacturing, agriculture, and services, and has become a catalyst for economic growth and development in the region.