We paid Lagos $100m for land, Nigerian govt making things hard for us — Dangote

Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has lamented the harsh and turbulent business environment in Nigeria.

He said governments at both State and federal level do not create conducive environment for companies and businesses to thrive.

Dangote said this in reaction to the furore and fuss surrounding his refinery.

He revealed that he did not enjoy any support or incentive from the Nigerian government to build his $20bn refinery sited at the Lekki Free Trade Zone.

Dangote made made the revelation when he received the leadership of the House of Representatives led by the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas and his deputy, Benjamin Kalu.

“In the refinery, we did not, and I repeat, we did not collect one single incentive from the Federal Government of Nigeria or even Lagos State.

“Yes, the Lagos State gave us a good deal but we paid $100m for the land. It wasn’t free land; we paid for it,” he said.

“Majority of the population are with us. So, we are not discouraged, we will continue what we are doing.”

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Dangote further called on the House of Representatives to investigate the quality of diesel and petrol at filling stations, refuting the claims that petroleum products from his refinery are substandard.

Dangote also urged the House to set up a committee to test products at various filling stations across the country, decrying the damage being done to vehicles and engines by substandard products.