The Dangote Group on Monday received a significant accolade from President Bola Tinubu.

The President lauded the company’s numerous strides in Nigeria and across Africa.

President Tinubu, who visited the Dangote’s compartment at the ongoing 29^th Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja, on Monday, October 23, said: “You are doing well. Keep doing the good things you are doing. Keep investing in Nigeria.”

Dangote is the biggest employer of labour after the government in Nigeria and also a significant employer of labour across Africa, where he has his cement plants in operation.

Experts who spoke at the Summit said Nigeria was waiting for the Dangote Refinery, expressing optimism that it would bring about a significant boost to the nation’s economy.

Speaking at a Panel titled: ‘Unlocking our Competitive Advantage’, Group Managing Director of the Dangote Industries Limited (DIL), Mr. Olakunle Alake, said it is gladdened that the Tinubu government understands the role of the of the private sector, while reinforcing the need for collaboration.

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Alake said Nigeria must grow its economy and especially the manufacturing sector to be able to play a pivotal role in the Africa and Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA).

He identified weak productive sector, lack of requisite skills and lack of infrastructure as impediments to the smooth take off of AFCFTA.

He said though AFCFTA is not the solution to the Nigerian economy, the country could maximize advantages from it by supporting the growth of the manufacturing sector.

Alake urged governments of West African countries to fix the problems hindering the implementation of ECOWAS protocols, regretting that business across West African countries is still difficult.

He advocated for improved border, ports, and customs services in the continent.

The Star