News Agency of Nigeria
Dangote sponsors 2025 Abuja Trade Fair, stimulates Intra-African partnership
Economy/Business

Dangote sponsors 2025 Abuja Trade Fair, stimulates Intra-African partnership

Dangote Industries Limited is sponsoring the 2025 Abuja International Trade Fair (AITF) which officially opens on Sept. 25, the company said in a statement.

“Dangote Group is proud to announce its strategic partnership with the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), organisers of the 2025 Abuja International Trade Fair.

“This collaboration presents a valuable opportunity to engage with key stakeholders and boost intra African trade and investments.

“The forum also serves as a platform for us to showcase a wide range of innovative products and our contributions to the sustainable development of Nigeria,” the statement from the Corporate Communications department said.

The statement signed by the company’s spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, said the Dangote Group has been consistent in its partnership with the Chamber.

He added that the company’s President, Aliko Dangote, is passionate about the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which, he said is strategically located in the Nigeria’s capital city which is home to policymakers and members of the Diplomatic Community.

Chiejina said the theme for the 20th Trade Fair: ‘Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives, and Taxation,” aptly resonates with the core of the conglomerate.

He quoted the Senior Adviser to the President of Dangote Group, Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman, as saying: “Dangote Industries Limited is a recognised market leader in Africa, yet it is not resting on its oars.

“Nearly all our Strategic Business Units will be showcasing innovative products at the fair, ranging from sugar, cement, salt, fertilizer, trucks, Dangote Peugeot Automobile, packaging materials, seasoning, petroleum products, and more.”

Wali-Abdurrahman noted that Dangote Group would leverage the Chamber’s planned launch of the “Buy Africa, Build Africa” (BABA) initiative, describing it as a welcome development.

She added that the conglomerate has long been at the forefront of promoting local content development in Nigeria while also driving the growth of intra-African trade.

The President of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Chief Emeka Obegolu, SAN, announced that the 12-day fair is expected to attract over 100,000 participants.

These, he said, would include representatives from government agencies, multinational corporations, small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs), diplomatic missions, and development partners.

He noted that the exhibitions would cover a wide range of sectors, including trade, agriculture, fintech, sustainable energy, transportation, environmental solutions, and creative industries.

He said one of the high points of the event would be the strategic partnership with the Dangote Group.

“Our collaboration with Dangote reflects our commitment to driving economic growth, strengthening trade, and creating opportunities for businesses and communities.

“The Dangote Group’s active participation in the 20th edition of the Trade Fair further demonstrates its role as a key player in Nigeria’s industrial and commercial landscape,” he added.

The Chamber’s President said: “The Fair is designed not only as a marketplace for business networking and investment opportunities but also as a platform to showcase green innovations and eco-friendly technologies that can transform industries and improve the quality of life.”

Similarly, the Director-General of ACCI, Dr Agabaidu Jideani, said by participating, investors like the Dangote Group stand to gain a lot through access to market, green opportunities, network and collaboration, brand visibility and credibility, among others.

“The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) highly values its long-standing partnership with the Dangote Group, which has been a consistent supporter of the Abuja International Trade Fair and other initiatives that promote commerce and industry in Nigeria,” the DG said.

The DG described the partnership with the Dangot Group as important, because “it not only enhances the visibility and global reach of the Trade Fair but also reinforces the Chamber’s mission of promoting sustainable development, innovation, and investment.

“Dangote’s presence inspires confidence among stakeholders and attracts greater participation from both local and international exhibitors.

“Going forward, ACCI remains committed to strengthening this collaboration with the Dangote Group, ensuring that together we continue to make impactful contributions to Nigeria’s economic transformation.” he said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Dangote urges Africa to fill manufacturing gaps
General News

Dangote urges Africa to fill manufacturing gaps

By Nana Musa

President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has called on Africans to leverage on internal strengths and global opportunities to fill existing gaps, and adopt a deliberate re-orientation toward industrialisation of Africa’s manufacturing sector.

He said that this would serve as a panacea against the current global economic instability.

Dangote, who was represented by Mr Mansur Ahmed, made the call at the ongoing 4th Intra-African Trade Fair holding in Algiers, Algeria.

He also encouraged operators in the manufacturing and industrial sectors to embrace a fundamental shift in mindset and develop robust regional value chains and deepen intra-African trade.

Dangote noted that current geo-political tensions and trade wars have caused major economies to reevaluate their traditional trade partnerships with a view to diversifying their supply chains.

He also urged African exporters to benefit from the current process to fill the gap by competitively supplying the required products.

“I am glad to be here at the 4th Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF). I am immensely grateful to the organisers – not only for inviting me and giving me the opportunity to speak – but also for going a step further by dedicating this remarkable day to my organisation, Dangote Group. To have today officially set aside as Dangote Day is both an honour and a privilege.

“I thank the conveners – The African Export Import Bank, the African Union Commission and the Africa Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat – for organising this event. We appreciate the invaluable contributions you have made and the excellent work you continue to do in promoting, facilitating, and deepening trade and investment across the continent.”

Speaking at the company’s Special Day, he said: “This year’s theme, “Gateway to New Opportunities,” resonates deeply as a powerful reminder of the huge potential and prospects that abound across the African continent.

“For too long Africa’s resources have been exported as primary commodities in their raw and unrefined state with limited domestic processing or beneficiation.

“There must be a fundamental shift in mindset and a deliberate re-orientation toward industrialisation and the development of Africa’s manufacturing sector. While this was always necessary in the past, it is even more urgent today, given the alarming rise in youth unemployment, and the need for sustainable, inclusive growth.”

Dangote said that the current geo-political tensions and trade wars have caused major economies to reevaluate their traditional trade partnerships with a view to diversifying their supply chains.

“African exporters could benefit if they can fill the gap by competitively supplying the required products.

“Furthermore, global instability has encouraged African nations to look inward and actively pursue greater regional self-reliance. This inward focus can catalyse the development of robust regional value chains and significantly deepen intra-African trade.

“At Dangote, we are very proud of our Afrocentric posture, driven by an unwavering commitment to the continent’s growth and industrial transformation.

“We have added value to limestone and created the largest cement company in sub–Saharan Africa with an aggregate cement production capacity of about 52MMtpa across 10 countries,” Dangote stated.

He added that the company’s 3MMtpa urea plant has contributed to the attainment of fertiliser self-sufficiency.

He said that Nigeria, which once solely reliant on imports, was now a net exporter of granulated urea to destinations in Africa as well as to South America, North America and Europe.

“More recently, we have witnessed the commencement of operation of Africa’s biggest oil refinery – also the world’s largest single-train facility, with a capacity of 650kbpd.

“This landmark project is gradually reducing the region’s long-standing dependence on imports of refined petroleum products, particularly from Europe, while also generating surplus for export to global markets.

“As Africa becomes more self-sufficient in energy it should reduce our vulnerability to external shocks and supply disruptions.

“Africa’s potential and prospects are immense. However, this potential will only be fully actualised if individual nations take deliberate steps to improve their business environment.

“Unlocking new economic opportunities requires the implementation of appropriate policy reforms, investment in infrastructure, and attractive sector wide incentives to facilitate the inflow of private capital” Dangote said.

The Dangote Special Day drew admirers and various attendees, various Business Units of the conglomerate such as Dangote Cement, Dangote Sugar, Dangote Salt (NASCON), Dangote Fertiliser, Dangote Polypropylene, and Dangote Packaging.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Dangote, NUPENG Face-off: NLC seeks Tinubu’s intervention
General News

Dangote, NUPENG Face-off: NLC seeks Tinubu’s intervention

Intervention

By Joan Nwagwu

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on President Bola Tinubu to promptly intervene in the face-off between the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Dangote Group.

The congress specifically called on the President to call on the Dangote Group to comply with labour laws and international conventions.

NLC made the call in a statement signed by its President, Mr Joe Ajaero, which was made available to newsmen on Saturday in Abuja.

The statement was sequel to the announcement by NUPENG that it would commence a nationwide strike from Sunday, over what it described as  Dangote’s “anti-union practices, monopolistic agenda, and indecent industrial relations strategies.”

Ajaero called on the President to “immediately call Aliko Dangote and Alhaji Sayyu Dantata to order” and impress on them to respect the nation and international laws.

Ajaero added that the government must not look the other way while a few individuals privatise the nation’s energy future and enslave its workforce.

The NLC President accused Dangote Group of exploiting Nigerian workers while disregarding their constitutional rights to unionise and bargain collectively.

“The NLC unequivocally condemn the anti-union, anti-worker, and monopolistic practices of the Dangote Group and its affiliates.

“Nigerian workers are not slaves and cannot be serially abused without consequences,” he said.

Ajaero said the congress further demanded the immediate unionisation of Dangote Refinery and all its subsidiaries.

Accordig to him, preparations are underway for a united resistance in solidarity with NUPENG, including possible industrial action.

“If Dangote continues on this reckless anti-union path, we will move beyond words to action.

“Our solidarity is not negotiable. We will fight because we must.

“The working class must not be sacrificed on the altar of corporate greed,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Kogi communities benefit from Dangote Cement scholarship
General News

Kogi communities benefit from Dangote Cement scholarship

 

The Dangote Cement has extended its scholarship programme to 50 people from Oworo District of Kogi.

 

Speaking at the award ceremony in Obajana on Monday, the Plant Director, Azad Nawabuddin, explained that although the Oworo communities do not fall directly within the company’s catchment areas, Dangote Cement had chosen to extend its generosity by including them in the beneficiaries of the scheme.

 

The Plant Director noted that company already operates a Scholarship Scheme for its host communities in line with the provisions of the Community Development Agreement (CDA).

 

He added that, beyond the scholarship programme, the company also provided boreholes to five different Oworo communities, which further demonstrates its commitment to improving the welfare of the people.

 

He assured the communities that the company remains committed to sustaining its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme.

 

Speaking at the event, the General Manager of Social Performance, Mr Ademola Adeyemi, disclosed that out of the initial 50 beneficiaries of the scholarship scheme, 26 are female while 24 are male

 

He said: “As a policy, we will continue with each beneficiary, until they complete their academic programmes, provided they are able to sustain their academic performance, and we will only replace them with fresh beneficiaries upon exit of some current beneficiaries from school.”

 

Adeyemi said the initial 50 students for the 2025/26 session were selected with the active support of the Oworo Development Association and other key stakeholders.

 

“Permit me to note that today’s event is not just about financial support, it is about investing in the future of our community. These scholarships symbolise hope, opportunity, and the belief that every child, regardless of background, deserves a chance to pursue their dreams through education,” he added.

 

In his reaction, the President of the Oworo Development Association, Alhaji Jibril Ibrahim, commended the Dangote Cement Plc for making the dream of Oworo people come true.

 

“To our young beneficiaries, I urge you to see this scholarship as a challenge to excel. Work hard, remain disciplined, and make your community proud. The opportunity before you today is a seed, nurture it well so that one day you will give back to others.”

Also speaking, the Kogi State Commissioner for Education, who was represented by the Acting Permanent Secretary Ministry of Education, Omolayo Bilkisu, said the government of Kogi believed in a Public Private partnership to move the state forward,

 

She added that the government was proud of the support the company is offering to the communities through its education and empowerment programmes.

 

The Olu of Apata Oba Frederick Balogun said: “Education remains the strongest foundation for development, and by supporting our sons and daughters in their academic pursuits, Dangote Cement has once again demonstrated its commitment to the growth and wellbeing of its host communities.

 

“This gesture will ease the burden on parents, encourage hard work among students, and inspire hope in many households.”

 

Oba Ahmodu Adoga, who is the Obaro of Ogbagon Community, said the community would continue to be grateful as education opens doors of opportunities for the youth.

 

“Once again, we thank Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the management, and staff of Dangote Cement Plc for their continued support. May this bond of cooperation between the company and Obajana grow stronger for the benefit of all.”

 

Victoria Temitope, a Councillor in one of the wards of the Oworo communities, thanked the President of the Dangote Group for the support and urged beneficiaries to maximise the advantages by studying hard.

 

“To our sons and daughters who have received this opportunity, I encourage you to study hard. Make the best use of it. Tomorrow, you will be the doctors, engineers, teachers, and leaders that will bring pride and progress back to the Oworo communities,” she said.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

CSR: Police laud Dangote Cement supports to host communities
General News

CSR: Police laud Dangote Cement supports to host communities

By Nana Musa

The Nigeria Police Force say the Dangote Cement Plc’s social intervention schemes has boosted security, promoted peace and supported economic development across the country.

 

This is coming on the heel of the two institutions collaboration towards safeguarding communities, protecting critical business operations, and creating a more secure environment for sustainable growth and investment.

 

AIG Abubakar Zubairu in charge of zone 8, who disclosed this during his visit to the Dangote Cement Plant at Obajana in Wednesday, noted that such collaborations would enhance law enforcement efforts.

 

Zubairu added that the collaboration would also create a stable environment where businesses can thrive and contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s economic growth.

 

He said that the country owes Dangote Cement gratitude for its numerous social intervention programmes, which have continued to uplift communities and support national development.

 

He said that the Police remained committed to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens, while also ensuring the protection of corporate institutions whose contributions are vital to Nigeria’s economic growth and social stability.

 

“I am really impressed by your Corporate Social Responsibility schemes. I am aware you have spent money running into billions on CSR. This is commendable.

 

“For us our business is security, and the Dangote Cement is very key. You provide jobs for Nigerians, and you have been responsible and responsive to host communities and the nation.

 

“I want to assure you of our continued support. The valuable work you do in creating jobs and providing CSR programmes contributes to reducing crime in our society,’’ he said.

 

Speaking earlier, Plant Director, Dangote Cement Plc, Nawabuddin Azad, said he was elated by the visit of the top hierarchy of the Police, adding that there was the need to strengthen the partnership.

“Your presence here today is not just a routine visit; it is a powerful symbol. It is a symbol of commitment, a symbol of partnership, that the safety of key national economic assets is a top priority. We do not take this for granted.”

 

The Plant Director added that the mission of the company was aligned with that of the Federal Government, which is to grow the economy, create jobs for the teeming youths, and contribute to the nation’s GDP.

 

“But let me be very frank, without security, there can be no production. Without production, there can be no prosperity. The wheels of our company turn not just on power and raw materials, but fundamentally on the oil of peace and security,” he said.

 

Azad, therefore, urged for a stronger partnership in key strategic areas like intelligence sharing, empowering local division and fostering greater trust between the police, host communities and the company.

 

Speaking at the event, General Manager, Social Performance, Ademola Adeyemi, said the company has always enjoyed robust partnership with the Police.

 

The Head of Human Resources and Administration, Azeez Adeniyi, said that most of the company’s employees are from Kogi State, stating that the company is doing everything it can to sustain smooth operational turf.

 

Officers in the entourage of the AIG include: DCP A. Eljamal, DCP Abubakar B. Ardo, ACP Umar Ibrahim Wurno, CSP Halidu Kasimu, CSP Emmanuel P. Ganya and CSP Ujah I. Francis, among others.

 

It will be recalled that in 2018, the Aliko Dangote Foundation donated 150 operational vehicles to the Police at an event in Abuja.

 

More recently, the company also contributed an additional 25 vehicles to the Force, making it one of the largest corporate donors to the Nigeria Police in the nation’s history.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Dangote Cement marks Int’l Youth Day at Obajana
General News

Dangote Cement marks Int’l Youth Day at Obajana

By Nana Musa

The Dangote Cement says its company’s policy is in line with the United Nations’ ideals of empowering the youth for social and economic development of societies.

 

The Plants Director, Nawabuddin Azad, said this when the company marked the International Youth Day at its Obajana plant, Kogi.

Azad, who was represented by the General Manager, Social Performance, Ademola Adeyemi, was speaking on the theme: Local Youth Action on SDG and Beyond.

 

He said that the youth have always been a priority in its job creation drives and empowerment programmes.

 

He noted that, only recently, youths from the company’s host communities were empowered on poultry farming, solar entrepreneurship, fashion design, and several other vocational skills.

 

“At our plant, we believe in shared value, where business success goes together with social progress. We are committed to supporting initiatives that empower the youth, uplift communities and promote sustainable practices,” he said.

Addressing staff and guests at the plant, the Chief General Manager and Head of Production, Mr John Gwong, described the youth as the greatest asset of any nation, noting that their creativity, energy, and innovation remain critical for Nigeria’s future.

 

He stressed that Dangote Cement views the youth not only as future leaders but also as present contributors to the company’s growth.

 

“At Dangote Cement, we see the youth as the backbone of society. By mentoring them, building their capacity, and exposing them to new technologies, we are preparing a generation that will secure the growth of both our company and our nation,” Gwong said.

 

On his part, the Head of Human Resources, Mr Azeez Adeniyi, emphasised the importance of instilling discipline, hard work, and integrity in young people.

 

He noted that the youth population is central to Nigeria’s workforce and their skills and values directly influence the productivity of industries.

 

“Our engagement with young employees goes beyond technical training. We prioritise ethics, teamwork, and responsibility, because these are the values that shape strong leaders and professionals. When the youth succeed, companies like Dangote Cement and the entire nation also succeed,” Adeniyi remarked.

 

Also speaking, Mr Wale Adedeji, Head, Technical, Dangote Academy, urged youths to embrace technology and innovation, stressing that the future belongs to those who are adaptable and forward-thinking.

 

 

Adedeji explained that Dangote’s continued investment in young professionals has strengthened its operations and positioned the company as a leader in Africa’s cement industry.

 

“The world is changing rapidly, and young people must be equipped not only to take jobs but also to create them. The values of curiosity, resilience, and problem-solving are essential for them to remain competitive globally, and these qualities directly translate into the company’s ability to innovate and remain productive,” Adedeji said.

 

The officials collectively noted that industries, governments, and communities must create platforms that empower young people to maximise their potential.

 

They warned that failing to invest in youth development could worsen unemployment and social vices, which would threaten national stability.

 

Dangote Cement showcased initiatives such as its graduate trainee scheme, internship opportunities, and community empowerment projects, which have empowered hundreds of young people across its host communities and built skilled workers for the company.

 

According to the management, the youth are not only vital to Nigeria’s future but are already playing an indispensable role in the day-to-day operations of Dangote Cement through innovation, energy, and fresh perspectives.

 

The highpoints of the ceremony was a call on young Nigerians to remain committed to lifelong learning and positive values, while stakeholders were urged to sustain efforts at mentoring, empowering, and involving youths in nation-building.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Dangote bags ‘Cement Company of the Year’ Award
Economy/Business

Dangote bags ‘Cement Company of the Year’ Award

By Nana Musa

The Dangote Cement Plc has bagged the ‘Cement Company of the Year’ award for its support for the real estate sector in Africa.

 

The award was given at the just concluded Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) in Abuja.

 

The Dangote Cement Plc is one of the sponsors of the four-day housing exhibition that ended Aug. 1 where 21 countries and 40,000 exhibitors participated.

 

Presenting the award on behalf of the organisers of the show, Gov. Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State, who was represented by his deputy, Idris Mohammed-Gobir, described the Dangote cement as a household name and the pride of Africa.

 

According to him, the Dangote Cement has supported Nigerian economy through job creation and philanthropy, among others.

 

The Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Ahmad Dangiwa, lauded Dangote Cement for its contributions to the development of the Nigerian Economy.

 

Dangiwa urged the company to join hands with government in bridging the gap of Housing deficit in the Country.

 

Coordinator of the Show, Festus Adebayo, said that the housing deficit in the country could be mitigated through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

 

He said: “Innovation and collaboration are top priorities for us, given the rapid technological advancements in housing construction, financing and system improvements.”

 

Adebayo said he was optimistic that the partnership with Dangote Cement Plc would help address the narrative of housing shortfall in the country.

 

Speaking earlier, the Director General, Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, (NBRRI), Prof. Samson Duna, said: “Dangote cement dominates the Nigeria and West Africa markets in respect of patronage and is doing well. Dangote Cement stands for standard and quality.”

 

Speaking at the company’s Special Day, the National Sales Director, Dangote Cement Plc, Dolapo Alli, said: “Addressing housing issues requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, private developers, non-profits, and communities. The government can adopt public-private partnerships (PPPs) to support mass housing initiatives.

 

“Through PPP models, the government may initiate the construction of new estates, while companies and firms in the building and construction sector can be granted tax waivers and credits to facilitate the financing of new and affordable housing developments.”

 

A statement from the company’s spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, said that the theme of the 2025 Show: Reimagining Housing Through Innovation, Collaboration and Policy” aptly resonated with its core value.

 

The latest recognition came amidst several other recognitions across Africa.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

NOGASA calls for intervention in Dangote’s planned product distribution
Economy/Business

NOGASA calls for intervention in Dangote’s planned product distribution

By Emmanuella Anokam

The Natural Oil and Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA) has urged the Federal Government to intervene in Dangote Refinery’s move to supply petroleum products directly to consumers and its effect on current distributors.

 

NOGASA said the move by the refinery to bypass the traditional distribution could disrupt the oil and gas industry, putting thousands of jobs at risk and jeopardising the existing business models of suppliers nationwide.

 

NOGASA’s President, Benneth Korie, on Thursday in Abuja at its Annual General Meeting, urged the Dangote Refinery to concentrate on refining and selling products to the marketers, who sell to the end users.

 

Recall that Dangote Refinery recently announced plans to begin direct supply of petroleum products to end users from Aug. 15.

 

Dangote said that the programme was aimed at eliminating logistics costs, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting sustainability and supporting Nigeria’s economic development.

 

It said all petrol stations purchasing PMS and diesel from the Dangote Petroleum Refinery would benefit from this enhanced logistics support.

 

It said that sectors such as manufacturing, telecommunications, and others would benefit from this initiative through reduced fuel costs, lower production costs, reduced inflation, and foster economic growth.

 

Korie, however, said the recent plan by the refinery to begin direct distribution of products, with the purchase of 4,000 distribution trucks for nationwide supply, had left the marketers worried in the business.

 

“So today again, we are pleading for President Bola Tinubu to intervene in this matter by telling Dangote to slow down, and go by the rules of the game. Nobody is against the refinery.

 

“The Dangote Refinery is doing well by refining products, we urge Dangote to concentrate on the refinery and remove hand from this direct distribution, we are capable to distribute products

 

“All you need to do is to blend enough products and sell to depot owners and other countries and then we buy and distribute to the end users nationwide to sustain the system and avoid scarcity.”

 

Korie said the association was eager to maintain stability in the industry and would not want reoccurrence of the experience the marketers had with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (Ltd.).

 

He explained that the NNPC Ltd. was refining petroleum products and distributing through its subsidiary, the Pipelines and Products Marketing Company (PPMC) smoothly, but was disrupted immediately it began direct supply to its outlets only.

 

According to him, as soon as the NNPC Ltd. began concentrating on its retail outlets, the refineries started going down because they are doing a whole lot  including blending, crude sale, and at the same adding filling station to its operations.

 

He however advised the management of the Dangote refinery to engage the relevant stakeholders in petroleum distribution and marketing constructively and discuss with them towards addressing the issues.

 

In his remarks, Mr Ugochinyere Ikenga, Chairman, House Committee on Petroleum Resources, Downstream said its goal was to create a situation where everyone would succeed, following the rules set in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).

 

Ikenga, represented by Mr Saba Ahmed, Member, House of Representative said it recognised the inefficiencies in distribution networks, adulteration problem, annoying supply bottlenecks that could lead to shortages, and tough logistical issues of moving products nationwide.

 

“These aren’t just things we talk about; they are real problems that affect people’s lives and our nation’s economy.

 

“I want to assure you that the National Assembly is aware of these issues. We are particularly paying attention to Dangote’s recent move into distributing and selling products and how it might affect current distributors.

 

“This is a big change, and I want to assure you that we are carefully looking into this situation,’’ he said.

 

Also speaking, Dr Billy Gillis-Harry, the National President, Petroleum Product Retail Outlets Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) raised alarm that job loss and business shutdown loomed in view of Dangote’s forward integration strategy of direct product supply.

 

“With a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, which has now been up to 700,000 barrels, PETROAN simply argues that Dangote refinery should be competing with global refineries, not operating as a distributor in the downstream.

 

“We, the marketers are more than able to do it, he said,’’ he said.

 

In his remarks, Gen. Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff urged the association to remain resolute as it discharged its duties of petroleum distribution and marketing smoothly in the country.

 

Musa, represented by Rear Admiral Jonathan Mamman, Director of Logistics, Defence Headquarters urged the marketers to facilitate expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure and penetration of Liquefied Natural Gas in the country especially in remote places.

 

Speaking on safety and distribution of products along the coastal areas, he said the armed forces had been doing so much through the Nigerian Navy, which had numerous patrols and coverage of the coastal areas.

 

“It’s gladdening to say that the International Maritime Bureau in Malaysia and the United Kingdom have delisted Nigeria from one of the countries, red-flagged countries, of piracy and attack on her maritime sectors.

 

“We have not been having so much security issues, we are open to collaborations, suggestions, and support to the lead agencies protecting the oil and gas infrastructures inland,’’ he said.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwenae Moru

Dangote advocates budget-friendly mass housing for Nigerians
General News

Dangote advocates budget-friendly mass housing for Nigerians

By Nana Musa

Dangote Cement Plc has urged stakeholders in the housing industry to consider budget-friendly mass housing scheme for Nigerians.

 

Speaking at the ongoing Africa International Housing Show, the National Sales Director, Dangote Cement Plc, Dolapo Alli, said that all stakeholders must collaborate for affordable housing in the country.

 

“Addressing housing issues requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, private developers, non-profits, and communities.

 

“The government can adopt public-private partnerships (PPPs) to support mass housing initiatives.

 

“Through PPP models, the government may initiate the construction of new estates, while companies and firms in the building and construction sector can be granted tax waivers and credits to facilitate the financing of new and affordable housing developments.”

Alli, who was speaking at the company’s Special Day, said mass housing was one of the several strategies used to address the challenge of providing adequate housing for the public.

 

He added that the approach had helped to tackle the pressures of rapid urbanisation in numerous countries around the world.

 

He commended the efforts of the Federal Government in implementing mass housing programmes, adding that more gaps need to be covered.

 

“Nigeria, through the Renewed Hope Housing Initiative, has taken commendable steps toward addressing the critical gap in access to affordable housing finance.

“This initiative signals a strong commitment to making home ownership more accessible for citizens, particularly low- and middle-income earners.

 

“However, given the scale of the nation’s housing deficit—estimated in the millions—much more needs to be done.

 

“There is a pressing need for broader collaboration across public and private sectors to unlock innovative financing solutions, streamline regulatory processes, and scale up delivery to meet the growing demand for decent and affordable housing.”

 

Alli identified several challenges affecting the provision of affordable housing in Nigeria.

 

Some of the challenges, he said, include: rapid urbanisation, population growth, knowledge gap in housing, high cost of land acquisition, rising cost of construction materials.

 

Others, he said, include lack of basic infrastructure, inaccurate housing demographics and limited access to long-term and low-cost financing.

 

He said the continued participation of the company in the Africa International Housing Show stems from the conviction that the gathering has made a meaningful impact by generating ideas and fostering partnerships that contribute to providing shelter for Nigerians.

 

He urged governments at all levels to implement effective policies and make available lands for mass housing in Nigeria.

 

The Dangote Cement Plc is one of the sponsors of the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) which closes on Friday.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Dangote Cement sponsors Africa Housing Show 
Economy/Business

Dangote Cement sponsors Africa Housing Show 

By Nana Musa

The Dangote Cement is sponsoring the Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) which opened on Monday at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

 

A statement from the company said aside from the sponsorship, the company is also participating in the event, which is the 19th in the series.

 

The statement signed by the spokesman of the company, Anthony Chiejina, said the event would host participants from 21 countries.

 

Chiejina said that the show was a rare platform for the company to connect with key players in the housing industry across the continent.

 

“As the Housing Show brings together over 40,000 participants, including key industry leaders, government representatives and investors, the Dangote Cement Plc will leverage on this opportunity to directly showcase its innovative products to clients and decision makers.”

He said that the company has consistently sponsored the Show over the years, assuring that it would continue to partner with key stakeholders to support the provision of shelter in Africa.

 

According to Chiejina, AIHS will help amplify the Dangote brand and boost strategic partnership with stakeholders.

 

He said that the theme of this year, “Reimagining Housing Through Innovation”, aptly resonates with the company’s core value.

 

Coordinator of the Show Festus Adebayo said that the housing deficit in the country can be mitigated through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

 

“Innovation and collaboration are top priorities for us, given the rapid technological advancements in housing construction, financing and system improvements.”

 

Adebayo said he was optimistic that the partnership with Dangote Cement Plc would help address the housing shortfall in the country.

 

He said that over 82 per cent of attendees hold decision making positions, ensuring exhibitors engage directly with individuals who have purchasing power.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Institute of Building and other stakeholders in the housing industry had described the Dangote Cement Plc as one of the major drivers of real estate development in Nigeria.(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

X
Welcome to NAN
Need help? Choose an option below and let me be your assistant.
Email SubscriptionSite SearchSend Us Email