Billionaire businessman Femi Otedola has extended his congratulations to his friend and fellow entrepreneur, Aliko Dangote, on the successful realization of the $20 billion Dangote Refinery in Lagos.
In a social media post on Tuesday, Otedola praised Dangote, stating that with the refinery now producing petrol, Nigeria is no longer dependent on foreign powers for its fuel needs. “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,” Otedola wrote.
Otedola further highlighted the significance of the 650,000 barrels per day facility, which now fully produces aviation fuel, diesel, and petrol. He pointed out that Dangote’s achievement has effectively ended the dominance of local cabals that have profited from Nigeria’s economic dependence. “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.”
He also predicted that the era of fuel imports is coming to an end, advising depot owners to dismantle their depots and sell them while they still have value. “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.”
Concluding his message, Otedola expressed his deep admiration and respect for Dangote and extended his congratulations to the entire team at the Dangote Refinery. “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 said.