Otedola Congratulates Aliko Dangote as Dangote Refinery Begins Distribution of Petrol
Prominent Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, Femi Otedola, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Aliko Dangote as the highly anticipated Dangote Refinery begins operations. In a statement, Otedola praised Dangote for his unwavering commitment and vision that has finally come to fruition after 25 years of perseverance.
“First and foremost, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to President Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support and belief in actualizing this monumental achievement under his administration. This day belongs to every Nigerian who has dared to dream of a better future. Congratulations to our great nation—today, we all stand a little taller,” said Otedola.
Reflecting on their shared journey, Otedola recounted the inception of the Blue Star Consortium, a venture aimed at transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape by acquiring stakes in the Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries. Although the initiative was thwarted by the government at the time, Otedola lauded Dangote’s resilience and determination, which have now culminated in the successful launch of the Dangote Refinery.
“Aliko, it feels like just yesterday, but it has been 25 long years since we first set our sights on transforming Nigeria’s energy landscape. I remember vividly when we set up the Blue Star Consortium to acquire stakes in the Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries—20% for me and 51% for you. We were ready to change the game, but fate had other plans. The government of the day, in an act I can only describe as utterly obnoxious, canceled our stakes and thwarted our vision. But, as always, you refused to be deterred,” Otedola remarked.
Otedola highlighted the significance of this achievement, noting the stark contrast between the dormant state of the Kaduna and Port Harcourt refineries, which have remained inactive despite substantial investments, and the operational success of the Dangote Refinery. He emphasized the refinery’s role in liberating Nigeria from economic dependence and commended Dangote for overcoming the challenges and skepticism that surrounded the project.
“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 stated.
Otedola drew parallels between Dangote’s transformation of the cement industry in Nigeria and the potential impact of the refinery on fuel imports. He urged depot owners to adapt to the changing landscape, noting that those who fail to do so will be left behind.
“When I ventured into the depot business with Zenon, it was in response to the inefficiencies of the NNPC. Zenon pioneered the diesel business in Nigeria and quickly became the largest in the country, filling the gaps left by our inefficient system. But today, your refinery stands as a beacon of what is possible when one has the audacity to dream and the tenacity to see it through,” he added.
In closing, Otedola expressed his deepest admiration and respect for Dangote, congratulating him and the entire Dangote Refinery team on their monumental achievement. He reiterated that this success is not only a victory for Dangote but for every Nigerian who dares to dream of a better future.
“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.
