Aliko Dangote: Job creation and “Africa First” Mentality key to continental greatness

Aliko Dangote, the Founder and President/Chief Executive of Dangote Group, has declared that job creation is absolutely essential for realizing the vision of making Africa great again.

Dangote made this powerful statement while addressing the 32nd Afreximbank Annual Meetings 2025 (AAM2025) in Abuja on Friday, where he spoke on the topic, “The Path to Making Africa Great Again.”

Dangote urged Africans to embrace the mantra “Africa First,” a philosophy he noted was inspired by President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy.

He highlighted the critical importance of investing money within the continent, drawing strategic comparisons to Asia’s successful economic model.

According to him, if Africa continues to invest heavily abroad, it becomes exceedingly challenging to attract foreign investments back to the continent.

“When we encourage domestic investors and they succeed, it will motivate foreign investors to come to Africa,” he stated, emphasizing the ripple effect of local success.

For Africa to truly experience significant growth, Dangote stressed the need for a robust manufacturing base, dramatically improved agricultural practices, and strong financial institutions. He further elaborated on the necessity of leveraging Africa’s vast natural resources internally: “We need to focus on our own resources in Africa by processing our minerals on the continent.”

Dangote explained that by doing so, Africa would create substantial value, generate much-needed jobs, and experience sustainable growth, thereby making it an attractive destination for global investments.

He firmly asserted, “Africa should not be a dumping ground.”

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Addressing challenges hindering industrial growth, Dangote pointed out that the lack of reliable electricity and inconsistent government policies have been significant obstacles, particularly in Nigeria.

He extended high praise to Afreximbank for its crucial support in establishing the landmark Dangote Refinery, noting that if Africa had ten institutions similar to Afreximbank, the continent could transform into a haven of prosperity within just a few years.

“We are the only ones who can make Africa great,” Dangote affirmed with conviction. “Yes, there will be ups and downs, but we must stay focused, and if we do, we will be successful. It is not just about amassing wealth, but about creating worth, such as through job creation.”

Dangote also shared an ambitious personal goal to become the highest producer of urea globally within the next 40 months.

He highlighted that 37 percent of Dangote Fertiliser’s current production is already being exported to the United States.

In response to recent trade dynamics, including a ban imposed by the U.S. on certain countries, he reiterated his “Africa First” perspective: “Why do people want to go to the U.S.? We have everything we need right here in Africa. Let us make Africa a productive continent because the potential for growth is significant.”