Aliko Dangote, the richest man in Africa, clarified on Saturday that he received no financial incentives from the Nigerian government for establishing his $20 billion refinery in the Lekki Free Trade Zone. This statement came during a visit from the House of Representatives leadership, led by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
Dangote emphasized, “In the refinery, we did not, and I repeat, we did not collect one single incentive from the Federal Government of Nigeria or even Lagos State.”
He explained that while the Lagos State government provided favorable conditions, the land was not given for free. “Yes, the Lagos State gave us a good deal but we paid $100 million for the land. It wasn’t free land; we paid for it,” Dangote clarified.
Despite challenges, Dangote remains committed to his projects, noting the support from the public. “Majority of the population are with us. So, we are not discouraged, we will continue what we are doing,” he stated.
During the meeting, Dangote also raised concerns about the quality of diesel and petrol being sold in Nigeria.
He urged the House of Representatives to investigate these issues, suggesting the formation of a committee to test the fuel products available at filling stations nationwide.
