The Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, has described Aliko Dangote as Nigeria’s “foremost industrialist” and the driving force behind the successful launch of the Nigeria Industrial Policy (NIP), even as he disclosed that his ministry was targeting a rise in manufacturing’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) to about 20 per cent by 2030 and 25 per cent by 2035.
Enoh made the commendation while leading a high-level delegation on an extensive tour of the 700,000 barrels-per-day Dangote Petroleum Refinery, the Dangote Petrochemicals complex and Dangote Fertiliser Limited in Lagos.
He stated: “He is Nigeria’s champion. I mean, it’s even understated when they call him Africa’s wealthiest man”, adding that Dangote’s presence at the NIP’s launch in February “gave it the prominence it now has.”
The minister disclosed that his ministry had met its first 90-day implementation benchmark under the industrial policy, and said the manufacturing GDP targets were closely tied to continued investment from Dangote’s businesses.
He also confirmed that discussions were ongoing with relevant authorities over a naira-for-crude arrangement for the refinery, expressing hope that talks would conclude favourably.
