Abuja: A senior official of Dangote Group has announced that its refinery is accelerating Nigeria's long-anticipated industrial progression, serving as a catalyst for rapid economic development in the nation. Senior Adviser on Special Projects and Stakeholders Relations to the President of Dangote Group, Mrs. Fatima Wali-Abdurrahman, revealed this during the 20th Abuja International Trade Fair.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wali-Abdurrahman emphasized that the expansive facility extends beyond fuel production, acting as a central stimulant for industrialisation in Nigeria. She highlighted that the refinery, alongside Dangote Cement, exemplifies the group's commitment to processing domestic materials rather than exporting raw resources and importing finished goods. This approach is designed to foster job creation, industrial growth, and reduced dependency on imports, thereby fortifying the national economy.
Wali-Abdurrahman elaborated on the refinery's conception, noting its integration of advanced technology and efficient measures. This design signifies that large-scale industrial operations and sustainability can coexist, establishing a benchmark for future projects across Africa.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Dangote Industries Limited is one of the sponsors and participants at the 12-day Abuja Trade Fair, themed: Sustainability: Consumption, Incentives, and Taxation. Wali-Abdurrahman described the company's partnership with the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) as a strategic alliance aimed at achieving a prosperous and industrialised Nigeria, rather than merely transactional dealings.
She mentioned that the company's Strategic Business Units present at the Fair include Dangote Cement, Dangote Salt, Dangote Sugar, Dangote Packaging, Dangote Fertiliser, and Dangote Sinotruck, among others. ACCI President, Dr. Emeka Obegolu, remarked that the Chamber's collaboration with Dangote Group represents a shared commitment to fostering economic growth, enhancing trade, and creating opportunities for businesses and communities.
Obegolu highlighted Dangote Group's active involvement in the 20th edition of the Trade Fair as evidence of its pivotal role in Nigeria's industrial and commercial sectors. The Fair is anticipated to draw over 100,000 participants over its duration.
He also introduced the Buy Africa, Build Africa (BABA) initiative, a notable highlight of the fair. This flagship initiative celebrates African products, services, and creativity, urging Africans to engage in intra-continental trade and development. The Trade Fair serves as a platform for business leaders pursuing expansion and investment opportunities, as well as government entities aiming to drive reforms and economic growth.