Gabon president invites Dangote to boost cement and fertilizer sectors

In a strategic move to boost Gabon’s industrial sector, President Brice Oligui Nguema has extended an invitation to Aliko Dangote, the founder of Dangote Industries Limited, to invest in the country’s cement and fertilizer, particularly urea and phosphate production. The invitation comes amidst Dangote’s recent decision to cease investment in Nigeria’s steel industry. The invitation comes shortly after Dangote announced his decision to halt investments in Nigeria’s steel industry to avoid accusations of monopolistic intentions from the Nigerian Federal Government.

During his visit, the discussions with President Nguema and other top government officials were focused on the potential for Dangote Industries to establish cement and fertilizer plants in Gabon, which are seen as vital for the nation’s infrastructure development and agricultural productivity. President Nguema expressed his enthusiasm for the potential partnership, highlighting significant benefits, including job creation, technology transfer, and enhanced industrial capacity the collaboration would bring.

Dangote underscored his company’s dedication to fostering economic development across the continent, emphasizing that investing in Gabon’s cement and fertilizer sectors aligns with Dangote Industries’ strategic vision.

The Dangote Group noted that the visit signifies a significant step towards deepening economic ties between Nigeria and Gabon: both nations anticipate mutual benefits that would propel economic progress and regional integration.

At the same time this development also aligns with President Nguema’s vision of transforming Gabon into a diversified and self-sustaining economy. The potential investment by Dangote Industries is expected to bolster Gabon’s industrial landscape, ensuring a steady supply of essential materials for construction and agriculture.

Further discussions and assessments will be conducted in the coming months to finalize the investment plans.