The Dangote Group has reaffirmed its commitment to driving industrial expansion and supporting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as pivotal engines of Nigeria’s economic growth.
Chairman of the group, Aliko Dangote, conveyed the message on Wednesday during the company’s Special Day at the 37th Enugu International Trade Fair.
The event, themed “Empowering MSMEs for Global Competitiveness,” showcased Dangote Group’s ongoing efforts to strengthen small businesses and industrial development across Nigeria.
Representing Dangote at the event, South East Regional Director of Dangote Cement Plc, Olatunbosun Jinadu, explained that the company’s long-term “Vision 2030” strategy is specifically aimed at tackling challenges that constrain MSMEs, such as the high costs of energy, raw materials, and infrastructure.
“The theme of this year’s fair underscores the critical role small businesses play not only in local markets but also on the global stage,” Jinadu said. “Creating an enabling environment for their growth is essential for sustained economic development.”
Jinadu also revealed that Dangote Group has completed plans to expand its petroleum refinery capacity from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day.
“This expansion is expected to significantly boost output and operational efficiency,” he noted.
In addition, the group is increasing its fertiliser production capacity to 12 million metric tonnes annually.
”The company is also continuing the expansion of its polypropylene plant to meet growing demand across sectors such as packaging, textiles, automotive, medical, and construction.
“The driving force behind these expansions is our belief that Nigeria’s economic transformation must be anchored on local production and industrial self-reliance,” Jinadu emphasised.
Earlier in the event, President of the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (ECCIMA), Nnayelugo Onyemelukwe, praised Dangote Group for sponsoring the trade fair consistently for over five years.
He further encouraged the company to consider establishing plants in the Southeast region, highlighting the area’s contribution to the nation’s economy.
