Rita Odafe
Bola Babarinde, a former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in South Africa, has cautioned against criticizing the Dangote Refinery, emphasizing its significance as a national achievement.
In a statement released on Friday, Babarinde urged detractors to shift their focus towards offering constructive suggestions rather than spreading negative propaganda.
He emphasized that the refinery symbolizes a substantial step towards achieving self-sufficiency in the petroleum sector.
Babarinde pointed out that Aliko Dangote, unlike others who embezzled public funds and transferred them overseas, opted to reinvest in Nigeria, contributing to infrastructure development and job creation.
He acknowledged Dangote’s enduring strategic alliances with successive governments in the nation.
While critics argue that Dangote’s political connections have granted him undue advantages such as favorable policies and contracts, supporters view him as a shrewd entrepreneur who recognizes the importance of collaborating with the government for national progress.
Dangote’s commitment to Nigeria is evident through his investments and the employment opportunities generated by his ventures.
Unlike individuals who amassed wealth through illicit means, Dangote’s fortune predominantly stems from legitimate business endeavors, setting him apart from corrupt officials who misappropriated public resources for personal gain.
As a prominent figure in Nigerian business and politics, Dangote’s narrative embodies ambition, strategy, and resilience.
While his strategies and political affiliations may attract scrutiny, his positive impact on the nation’s economic landscape is undeniable.
As Nigeria navigates towards prosperity, figures like Dangote serve as vital contributors, necessitating a delicate balance between national interests and individual enterprise, Babarinde emphasized.
