Faith Nyasuguta
Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, is intensifying efforts to end Nigeria’s dependence on sugar imports, continuing his drive for national self-sufficiency. Following his push to eliminate oil imports, Dangote is now targeting the sugar industry, investing $700 million to boost domestic production and reduce the nation’s reliance on imported raw sugar.
Speaking at the 14th Gateway International Trade Fair in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the “Dangote Special Day,” Dangote revealed his commitment to fast-tracking the Sugar Backward Integration Plan. This initiative aims to significantly increase local sugar production and achieve self-sufficiency, ultimately eliminating the need for imports.
Represented by Tunde Mabogunje, Regional Director of Lagos/Ogun Dangote Cement, the billionaire stated, “We are actively executing the Sugar Backward Integration strategy and have committed over $700 million to land acquisition, machinery, infrastructure, manpower, community relations, and corporate social responsibility initiatives to ensure Nigeria ends raw sugar importation.”
The investment is part of a larger strategy to stimulate the local economy, create jobs, and support Nigeria’s economic diversification goals. “As a conglomerate driving Nigeria’s economic diversification, we will continue to explore opportunities in the manufacturing sector to replace imports, create jobs, and support economic growth,” Mabogunje added.
Economic Growth and Job Creation
Dangote emphasized that his vision extends beyond reducing import dependence; it also includes boosting Nigeria’s manufacturing capacity and creating employment opportunities. By investing heavily in local sugar production, Dangote aims to empower Nigerian farmers and stimulate the agricultural sector.
The Nigerian billionaire expressed confidence that his participation in events like the Gateway International Trade Fair would enhance market reach, increase consumer awareness, and further stimulate economic development. “We are confident that this longstanding partnership with OGUNCCIMA will not only benefit our businesses but also contribute to the broader economic development of Nigeria and Africa,” he said.
Continuing the Push for Self-Sufficiency
Dangote’s campaign to eliminate sugar importation follows his ongoing efforts to end oil imports. His conglomerate, Dangote Refinery, recently filed a lawsuit against the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to cancel import permits for refined petroleum products.
The legal action, aimed at halting the issuance of import licenses for products such as Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Jet-A1 gasoline, highlights Dangote’s commitment to self-sufficiency in Nigeria’s energy sector. The lawsuit claims that NMDPRA’s continued issuance of import permits violates the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) and is causing financial losses to Dangote Refinery.
Driving Nigeria’s Economic Diversification
Aliko Dangote’s vision is clear: to transform Nigeria from an import-dependent nation to a manufacturing powerhouse. By investing heavily in local industries like sugar and oil, he aims to reduce foreign dependency, create jobs, and foster sustainable economic growth.
Dangote’s strategic approach to import substitution is poised to enhance Nigeria’s self-reliance and stimulate local manufacturing. As the conglomerate continues to pursue self-sufficiency, Nigeria could soon become a significant player in global sugar production, reducing its import bills and strengthening its economy.
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