Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola has extended his heartfelt congratulations to his friend and business associate, Aliko Dangote, on the successful actualization of his $20 billion refinery in Lagos. Otedola praised Dangote’s achievement, declaring it a significant turning point in Nigeria’s economic independence.
In a social media post on Tuesday, Otedola lauded the impact of the Dangote Refinery, particularly its capacity to end Nigeria’s reliance on foreign powers for fuel. “You have not just built a refinery; you have liberated us from the chains of economic dependence that have held this nation back for far too long. The days of bowing to foreign powers for our fuel needs are over, thanks to your vision and determination,” he wrote.
The Dangote Refinery, with a production capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, is now fully operational, producing aviation fuel, diesel, and petrol. Otedola emphasized that this development marks the end of an era for local cabals who have profited from Nigeria’s dependence on fuel imports.
“You have dealt a death blow to the so-called local cabals who have fattened themselves for years, feeding off our nation’s economic slavery. These cabals, who have grown rich by keeping Nigeria in a perpetual state of dependence, must now face the reality that their era of easy gains is coming to an end,” Otedola stated.
Drawing a parallel to Dangote’s previous success in transforming Nigeria’s cement industry, Otedola predicted a similar outcome for the fuel import sector. “I am reminded of the time you revolutionized the cement industry in Nigeria. Ships that once brought in cement turned into rusting relics, scraps of a bygone era. Now, with your refinery in full swing, I foresee a similar fate for fuel imports. The depot owners should take heed—it’s time to dismantle those depots and sell them as scraps while the market is still high. The world has changed, and those who do not adapt will be left behind,” he warned.
In his closing remarks, Otedola expressed deep admiration for Dangote’s vision and perseverance, congratulating him and the entire team behind the Dangote Refinery on their monumental achievement. “Aliko, you have my deepest admiration and respect. Congratulations to you and the entire board, management, and staff of Dangote Refinery on this monumental achievement. This is not just a victory for you but for every Nigerian who dares to dream. May this be just the beginning of even greater things to come,” he concluded.
