A Nation Awaits: Dangote Encouraged To Rekindle Steel Industry Plans

A Nation Awaits: Dangote Encouraged To Rekindle Steel Industry Plans

Renowned businessman and Africa’s richest person, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has been urged not to abandon his vision of establishing a steel plant in Nigeria. The passionate appeal came from Vicar and Archdeacon of Ikoyi Anglican Communion,…A Nation Awaits: Dangote Encouraged To Rekindle Steel Industry Plans

Folorunso Agbelusi, during a thanksgiving service in Lagos.

The service, held at Our Saviour’s Church, Tafawa Balewa Square, marked the 90th birthday celebration of elder statesman and cultural icon, Mr. Frank Abiodun Aig-Imoukhuede.

“Don’t Give Up on Nigeria,” Cleric Appeals to Dangote

Addressing Dangote, who sat among other dignitaries, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Zenith Bank Chairman Jim Ovia, and former CBN Governor Joseph Sanusi, Agbelusi encouraged him to remain steadfast.

“I want to plead with our brother, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, not to abandon his good plans for Nigeria. That investment in steel you’ve been considering is vital. Nigeria is counting on you—not just for this generation but for the future,” the cleric emphasized.

Dangote’s Challenges and the State of Nigeria’s Steel Industry

Dangote had earlier expressed frustration with government bureaucracy, which he claimed hindered his plans for a steel plant after the challenges he faced establishing his $20 billion refinery and petrochemical complex. Despite the refinery’s capacity to meet Nigeria’s fuel needs and export surplus, regulatory agencies continued to support fuel imports, a move that disheartened him.

Nigeria’s steel industry remains underdeveloped, forcing the country to import $4 billion worth of steel annually, according to the Minister of Steel, Shuaibu Audu. “The president is committed to reversing this trend and ensuring local steel production to ease pressure on foreign exchange,” Audu stated.

Why Steel Matters for Nigeria

As a cornerstone of industrial production, steel is essential for infrastructure, construction, manufacturing, and transportation. Reviving Nigeria’s steel sector could catalyze industrial growth, reduce imports, and boost the nation’s economy.

While Dangote did not respond during the event, the cleric’s heartfelt plea reflects the urgency for visionary investments to propel Nigeria toward industrial self-reliance.

For More Information And News Update, Join Ireporteronline WhatsApp Channel With Link Below: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaV4jB6DuMRgwqnJCF32 For advertisement inquiries only, kindly send a message to 09010649814 on Whatsapp