Enoh hails Dangote as Nigeria’s industrial champion
Minister of State for Industry Commends Dangote’s Role in Industrial Policy Launch
LAGOS—John Enoh, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Industry, has lauded industrialist Aliko Dangote as Nigeria’s “foremost industrialist” and a key contributor to the recent launch of the Nigeria Industrial Policy (NIP). Enoh emphasized that his ministry aims to increase the manufacturing sector’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) to 20% by 2030 and 25% by 2035.
Enoh’s remarks came during a visit to the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, which processes 700,000 barrels per day, as well as the Dangote Petrochemicals complex and Dangote Fertiliser Limited in Lagos. He noted that Dangote’s presence at the NIP launch in February significantly elevated the policy’s prominence.
During the visit, Enoh reported that his ministry successfully met its initial 90-day implementation benchmark under the industrial policy. He highlighted that the anticipated GDP targets for manufacturing are closely linked to ongoing investments from Dangote’s enterprises.
The minister also revealed that discussions are underway regarding a naira-for-crude arrangement for the refinery, expressing optimism for a favorable resolution.
In terms of future collaboration, Enoh indicated that his ministry plans to present Dangote with a three-point request focusing on industrial training and skills development. This includes support for approximately 65,000 additional personnel needed for the refinery’s upcoming expansion, development along the downstream value chain surrounding the petrochemicals complex, and enhanced cooperation on free trade zone projects, including a recent initiative in Ondo State.
Enoh further praised the high level of automation at the refinery, which he noted has reduced the on-site workforce primarily to security personnel.
In response, Aliko Dangote, Founder and President/Chief Executive of Dangote Industries Limited, commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Enoh to his position, describing the minister’s dedication to the industry as unparalleled compared to his predecessors.
“I must thank His Excellency, Mr. President, for appointing people like Senator Enoh,” Dangote said. “We’ve had various ministers of industry, but the commitment we see from him is unmatched.”
Dangote also expressed support for President Tinubu’s vision to transform Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy, stating that his conglomerate aims for a $100 billion contribution toward that goal by 2030. “The vision of Mr. President, a $1 trillion economy, is achievable. That’s why we have set a target of $100 billion as part of that vision,” he said.
