They don’t want to go through this hell.
According to a report by Daily Post on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, Aliko Dangote, the President and CEO of Dangote Refinery, recently shared his thoughts on investing in Nigeria. He revealed that even some of the wealthiest individuals in the country are hesitant to invest locally because of the challenges they face.
Dangote explained that there are people with more liquid cash than him in Nigeria—though he didn’t name anyone—who prefer to stay abroad. He specifically mentioned Monaco as a popular place for these investors to “cool off,” avoiding the difficulties of doing business at home.
“There are more people who have more liquid cash than me in Nigeria, maybe one, two, or three, without mentioning names. But when they see us going through this wahala, they run to Monaco and just stay Jeje; they don’t want to go through this hell,” Dangote said.
This statement comes at a time when Dangote Refinery is navigating tensions with the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and other stakeholders in the downstream oil sector. Despite these challenges, the refinery recently launched a nationwide fuel distribution scheme aimed at improving fuel availability across Nigeria.
The initiative has received mixed reactions. While it promises cheaper fuel for Nigerians, NUPENG and the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN) have criticized it, calling it a “Greek gift.”
Dangote’s comments reflect the broader reality of investing in Nigeria. High potential often comes with high hurdles. While the country has immense opportunities, bureaucracy, regulatory hurdles, and labor issues can deter even the most seasoned investors.
For Dangote, pushing forward is not just about profit; it’s about resilience. He continues to invest in Nigeria, expanding operations and finding ways to make fuel distribution more efficient. His journey serves as a reminder that progress often requires patience and courage, especially in environments where doing business is not always straightforward.
For Nigerians and Africans watching these developments, there is a quiet inspiration here. Building something meaningful at home may be tough, but it is also deeply rewarding. Dangote’s story reflects the enduring spirit of those willing to face challenges and create value for their communities
