The Nigerian Democracy Working Group has issued a stern warning that recent attempts to undermine the Dangote refinery project could have serious repercussions for Nigeria’s investment environment.
According to the group, these actions could deter potential investors from considering Nigeria as a viable option for their investments.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, the group expressed concern that such developments might send the wrong message to other investors who are contemplating entering the Nigerian market. The group is a coalition of civil society organizations, academics, democracy advocates, and entrepreneurs from all six geopolitical zones in Nigeria.
The Democracy Working Group is calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene in the situation. They believe that the sabotage of the Dangote refinery not only undermines the country’s economic stability but also contradicts the current administration’s efforts to attract foreign investment.
Dr. Vincent Okpara Innocent and Dr. Idris Aliyu Mohammed, the convener and co-convener of the Democracy Working Group, respectively, emphasized that any attempt to sabotage the Dangote refinery poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s economy. They argue that such actions could be detrimental to the administration’s long-term goal of fostering a more investment-friendly environment.
The group highlighted that the Dangote refinery project represents a major technological advancement and a patriotic effort to improve Nigeria’s petroleum sector. They lauded Aliko Dangote’s initiative, noting that it is not merely a business venture but a visionary move that reflects a deep concern for the country’s public welfare. The refinery is expected to revolutionize the petroleum sector, boost economic activity, and significantly enhance Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
The group stressed that the refinery will also lead to increased revenue across various socio-economic sectors, benefiting a broad segment of the Nigerian population. They view the project as a historic opportunity to revitalize the petroleum industry and address systemic corruption within the sector.
The Democracy Working Group pointed out that the Dangote refinery project is not confined to the interests of any particular region but is intended for the benefit of all Nigerians. They urged President Tinubu and relevant authorities to handle the situation with care, emphasizing that the project should be protected from any malicious attempts to undermine it.
They noted that Aliko Dangote’s investments, including the world’s largest sugar refinery and cement factory, have been crucial in advancing Nigeria’s economic development. By choosing Lagos State for these ventures, Dangote demonstrated his commitment to national progress rather than focusing solely on his regional interests.
The group further recognized Dangote’s role as a leading private-sector employer and a major taxpayer. His contributions have not only supported job creation but have also helped to alleviate the collective hardships faced by Nigerians. The group expressed their support for Dangote’s efforts and urged all citizens to back and safeguard the refinery project.
The Nigerian Democracy Working Group cautioned against any attempts, whether from within or outside Nigeria, to sabotage this vital project. They called for collective national support to ensure the successful realization of the Dangote refinery, emphasizing that such projects are essential for the country’s economic growth and development.
