While Alhaji Aliko Dangote, president of Dangote Group of Companies is busy struggling at home with authorities in the oil and gas industry on how to get crude oil for his refinery, a country in the West African subregion has started a partnership with him. Gabon has signed an agreement with Africa’s richest man to produce cement and fertiliser towards helping to tackle the deficiency in infrastructure in the country.
He has, therefore, been invited by the President of Gabon, Brice Oligui Nguema, to invest in cement and fertiliser production in the country.
The invitation comes amid Alhaji Dangote’s recent decision to halt investment in Nigeria’s steel industry to avoid the accusations of being considered monopolistic, BUSHLINK reports.
The president of Camceple Following the businessman’s investment withdrawal from the steel sector in Nigeria, Ngume said Dangote Industries could contribute to Gabon’s economic growth by establishing cement and fertiliser plants, which are vital for the country’s infrastructure development and agricultural productivity.
In a statement signed by the Group on Tuesday, President Nguema expressed enthusiasm about the potential partnership, highlighting Gabon’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for foreign investments while noting that the collaboration with Dangote Industries would bring significant benefits, including job creation, technology transfer, and enhanced industrial capacity.
Responding to the investment invite, Alhaji Dangote underscored his company’s dedication to investing in Gabon’s cement and fertiliser sectors aligns with Dangote Industries’ strategic vision of expanding its footprint and supporting sustainable development across Africa.
He said, “We are excited about the opportunity to invest in Gabon. Our goal is to contribute to the country’s economic diversification and industrialisation efforts. By leveraging our expertise in cement and fertiliser production, we aim to support Gabon’s infrastructure and agricultural sectors.
“As Dangote Industries continues to explore and finalise investment opportunities, both nations anticipate mutual benefits that will drive economic progress and regional integration.
“The potential investment by Dangote Industries in Gabon is expected to bolster the country’s industrial landscape, ensuring a steady supply of essential materials for construction and agriculture. This development aligns with President Nguema’s vision of transforming Gabon into a diversified and self-sustaining economy”.