By Etuka Sunday
The huge investments and philanthropic strides of Africa’s top industry-Dangote Group- came into limelight as Kogi State opened its First Investment Summit in Lokoja yesterday.
The conglomerate is the major sponsor of the two-day summit with the theme: ‘Discover uncommon Investment Opportunities in the Confluence.’
The Dangote Cement’s Obajana Plant is the single largest cement factory in Africa.
The Vice President Yemi Osinbajo described the Dangote Group and by extension the private sector as key to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potentials.
Minister for Mines and Steel Development Kayode Fayemi who commended the Dangote Group’s effort in the mining sector urged the Kogi State Government to continue to partner the Group in its onerous task of bolstering the state’s economy.
Special Adviser, Finance and Investment, to the Governor of Kogi State Hon. Achile Omali described the Dangote Group as a dependable partner, adding that his contribution to the economy of the state is incalculable.
He commended the Group for its job creation through its investments in cement, agriculture, mining, power and in other sectors of the Nigerian economy.
Chief Executive of Access Bank Herbert Wigwe said Nigeria’s investors were not keen about investing in the mining sector of the state and elsewhere until the Dangote Cement thread the path.
He urged other investors to emulate the Group and consider investing in the mining sector of the state.
Director for Research at the IBB University Professor Nuhu Obaje advised that a Trust Fund be set up to be chaired by credible and experience people like Engr. Joseph Makoju, the Honorary Adviser to the President of Dangote Group Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
Mr. Makoju who represented Mr. Dangote noted that the Group has invested heavily in the state and donated to the wellbeing of people across Nigeria, adding that it is not resting on its oars.
Speaking also, the Oni of Ife Oba Enitan, said that the Dangote Group’s feat in the cement subsector was high commendable, just as he urged other Nigerians to support such effort.
The Executive Director Global Chamber Nigeria, Ogbonna Ukuku, said he was highly encouraged by the turnout and the Dangote’s numerous investments in the state.
Director Global Chamber Nigeria helped coordinated the Summit for the State.
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