By Seyi Babalola
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, said on Monday that Aliko Dangote, the founder of the Dangote refinery, did the right thing by investing in Nigeria.
Obi informed Dangote that he is strong enough to face all of the problems ahead of him.
Last Monday, Dangote accused Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited of attempting to sabotage his refinery’s operations.
Dangote said some of his friends had laughed at him for opting to site his refinery in Nigeria.
However, Obi informed Dangote that we are all created to serve humanity, adding that service may come with its attendant challenges.
Posting on X, Obi wrote: “Recently, the media was awash with a comment of disappointment credited to Alhaji Aliko Dangote, where he said that one of his wealthy friends who earlier discouraged him from investing in Nigeria, now mocks him, following the many challenges that have continued to contend with his business operations.
“My Dear Elder Brother, Alhaji Dangote, I want you to know that your friend is wrong. You did the right thing by investing in the productivity, growth, development and progress of our beloved nation, through your many business ventures, irrespective of the challenges and obstacles that now stand in your way.
“But God knows that you are strong enough to overcome the challenges and contribute to building a better humanity. I have lost more in my own life ever since I joined public service, which I would not have lost if I remained in the private sector.
“From all my savings from abroad which I brought back home, to the businesses I started in Nigeria which were either run aground or taken over by those entrusted with their management, I endured them all.
“Till today, I still face similar challenges where most times one is either being harassed by the government or the same system meant to protect you.
“But I believe that God kept us for this, and has empowered us to bring positive change and shine the light on the dark areas of
our nation.
“I encourage you to remain resilient in the face of the present challenges, not for material gains, but for the development and progress of the nation and a better humanity.”
