Dangote Blames Former Ogun Governor Amosun for Frustrating Cement Plant Project, Hails Governor Abiodun’s Support

In a dramatic revelation, Africa’s richest man and President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has opened up about the setbacks his company faced while attempting to establish a massive cement plant in Itori, Ewekoro Local Government Area, Ogun State.

According to Dangote, the ambitious six million tonnes per annum cement plant project was nearly scrapped due to persistent demolition exercises ordered by the former Governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun. Dangote alleged that the project site was demolished twice under Amosun’s administration, forcing him to abandon the investment.

In a viral video from his recent visit to Governor Dapo Abiodun, Dangote said:

“The factory we are visiting now in Itori is because of His Excellency that we are coming back. It was demolished twice. We started building it, and Governor Amosun would demolish it.
The second time we restarted again, he demolished it, including the fence. So we left. But right now, we are coming back with His Excellency, my brother Dapo Abiodun.”

This revelation has sparked conversations about the role of political leadership in attracting or discouraging investment opportunities. Dangote’s cement plant, if successfully completed, would position Ogun State as the largest cement producer in Nigeria, boosting the state’s economy and creating numerous employment opportunities.

Opinion: Political Friction and Investment Losses—A Costly Mistake?

It’s quite concerning when influential investors like Aliko Dangote, whose businesses could greatly impact a state's economy, are reportedly frustrated by leadership choices. The constant demolition of Dangote’s facility during Amosun’s administration presents a classic case of leadership failing to align with economic growth objectives.

The fact that Governor Dapo Abiodun has been credited for revitalizing the project highlights the power of supportive governance in creating an enabling environment for business. But one has to wonder, how many other potential investments have been lost due to political friction and bureaucratic bottlenecks?

Leaders must realize that their actions can either propel economic growth or drive away opportunities. Governor Abiodun’s proactive approach should serve as a lesson in prioritizing state development over personal or political differences.

But then again, is this revelation a strategy to tarnish the image of a political opponent or a genuine grievance? Either way, the potential completion of the cement plant remains a win for Ogun State.