Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, has promised to back the social policies and human development initiatives of the Kano State government. The billionaire businessman met with Governor Abba Yusuf on Friday and expressed his readiness to cooperate with him to improve the health, education, and economic sectors of the state.
Dangote, who hails from Kano, said he was proud of his home state and its governor, who won a legal battle at the Supreme Court to retain his seat. He said he would assist the government in providing local, value-added products and services that meet the basic needs of the people.
“I want to assure you of our support throughout your administration, maybe not only four years but eight years,” Dangote said. “Kano is home even though I was addressed as the richest black man you can address me as a Kano indigene. I am your subject and you can always call on me for cooperation to see how we develop Kano.”
Dangote’s industrial empire
Dangote is the founder and CEO of the Dangote Group, the largest industrial conglomerate in West Africa and one of the largest on the African continent. The group employs more than 30,000 people and generated revenue above US$ 4.1 billion in 2017.
The group’s core business focus is to provide local, value-added products and services that meet the basic needs of the populace. The group operates in various sectors, including cement, sugar, salt, oil and gas, fertilizer, and polysacks.
Dangote is also known for his philanthropic efforts, especially in the areas of health, education, and empowerment. He established the Aliko Dangote Foundation in 1994, which has worked to enhance opportunities for social change and improve the well-being of Nigerians and Africans.
The foundation has invested in various projects, such as the construction of a $100 million business school at the Bayero University in Kano, the donation of $20 million to the African Union to support the Africa Against Ebola Fund, the provision of $10 million to the World Food Programme to fight hunger in Nigeria, and the sponsorship of 1,000 women and youths in each of the 774 local government areas in Nigeria to start their businesses.
Governor Yusuf’s requests
Governor Yusuf, who appreciated Dangote’s visit and support, solicited his help for the establishment of an independent power plant to revive the ailing industries and boost the economic strength of the state. He also asked Dangote to assist in setting up a sickle cell hospital to provide free medication for the patients.
The governor further pleaded with Dangote to complete the gigantic projects initiated by his foundation at the Murtala Muhamnad Specialists Hospital, which includes an accident and emergency ward, a surgical and theatre complex, and a maternity and pediatric building.
He said he was confident that Dangote, as a proud indigene of the state, was capable of executing as many projects as possible to improve the lives of the people.
Dangote’s response
Dangote responded positively to the governor’s requests and assured him of his cooperation and collaboration. He said he was impressed by the governor’s vision and achievements and would do his best to support him.
He also said he would continue to pray for the success of the governor and the state, as well as the unity and prosperity of Nigeria.
“I am sorry for coming this late because I was supposed to have been here before now but I traveling a lot,” Dangote said. “Not that we took the government for granted because I want to have enough time to come and tell you that we believe in your administration and we are ready to support you.”
Source: Vanguard
