By Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
Africa’s business magnate Aliko Dangote has commended Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri for cultivating a robust investment climate, stressing that the state has emerged as a prime destination for economic ventures.
The remarks were delivered during the signing of a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Dangote’s conglomerate and the Bayelsa State government at Government House, Yenagoa, marking a significant milestone in fostering economic collaboration.
The MoU outlines a comprehensive partnership targeting investments in oilfield and gas development, agro-allied processing, seaport infrastructure, and other strategic sectors.
Dangote emphasized the state government’s exemplary cooperation, noting that it has facilitated the seamless advancement of his company’s gas pipeline project in Bayelsa.
“The support from Governor Diri’s administration has been outstanding.
“Our gas pipeline project is progressing without hitches, a testament to the state’s commitment to enabling business success.”
Dangote expressed optimism about Bayelsa’s economic prospects, highlighting the transformative potential of the Agge Deep Seaport and the state’s abundant gas reserves.
He stressed that these assets position Bayelsa as a critical hub for Nigeria’s industrial growth. “Bayelsa is poised for an economic renaissance.
“By developing the Agge Deep Seaport and leveraging its gas potential, we can drive unprecedented prosperity.”
He further pledged to collaborate with the state to create thousands of jobs and implement training programs to empower Bayelsa’s youth.
Reflecting on agricultural opportunities, Dangote outlined plans to revolutionize rice cultivation in the state to enhance food security and economic diversification.
“We will partner with the state to import high-yield rice seeds and conduct rigorous soil testing to optimize fertilizer use,” he explained.
This initiative underscores our commitment to sustainable development and community upliftment.”
Governor Diri, in his address, lauded Dangote’s integrity and vision, describing him as a trailblazer in African business.
“Aliko Dangote’s presence here reflects his dedication to fostering Nigeria’s growth,” Diri stated.
He emphasized Bayelsa’s vast reserves of oil, gas, and other natural resources, urging Dangote to capitalize on the state’s untapped gas deposits.
“Our gas reserves are a catalyst for industrial transformation,” he noted.
“With partners like Dangote, we can unlock their full potential.”
Diri also highlighted the state’s proactive measures to ensure a secure environment for investors, underscoring the deployment of advanced security technologies, including Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems. “We have prioritized peace and security to make Bayelsa a haven for investment,” he stressed.
He further outlined potential areas for collaboration, including the Agge Deep Seaport, gas and agro-allied processing plants, and a state-owned oil processing field.
Diri also expressed keen interest in leveraging the federal government’s infrastructure tax credit scheme to accelerate infrastructure development. “This partnership is a roadmap to economic prosperity,” he declared.
The signing ceremony builds on prior engagements, including Diri’s visit to the Dangote Refinery in Lekki, Lagos, in July 2024, and a meeting in Nassau, The Bahamas, during the AFREXIM annual meeting in June 2024.
Reflecting on the MoU’s significance, Dangote reiterated his commitment to Bayelsa’s development. “This agreement is more than a contract; it’s a blueprint for sustainable growth and opportunity,” he emphasized.
The partnership is poised to catalyze economic transformation, create employment opportunities, and enhance the livelihoods of Bayelsa’s citizens. As both parties move forward, the collaboration is expected to position Bayelsa as a model for public-private partnerships, with far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s economic landscape.
