Niger State Governor, Umar Bago has called for
partnership with the Dangote Group
in the exploration and development of the discovered crude
oil blocks in Niger State’s Bida Basin.
Bago said that the group would significantly
contribute to the exploration project with its proven expertise in the energy
sector in the country.
The governor said this while addressing industry
leaders at the Dangote Special Day event at the Niger National Trade Fair in
Minna on Saturday.
Bago said that the state was “open for business”
regarding Bida Basin oil development, calling for private sector investment and
expertise in the state’s hydrocarbon exploration.
The governor, represented by Hamza Sarki, Permanent
Secretary of the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Investment, acknowledged
Dangote Group’s proven capacity in executing large-scale industrial projects.
He cited the successful delivery of the world’s
largest single-train refinery in Nigeria as evidence of its technical expertise
and operational excellence.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Dangote
Group is the major sponsor of the 2025 Niger State National Trade Fair.
The Governor described the Bida Basin oil discovery as
Niger State’s ticket to economic prosperity, and win-win for partnership with
relevant players in the oil sector.
A 2023 geological survey report identified 17
commercially viable oil blocks in Niger, with estimated hydrocarbon reserves
projected to sustain production for approximately 70 years.
The Bida Basin, stretching across parts of Niger and
Kwara States, has been identified as a promising sedimentary basin with
hydrocarbon potential.
Representative of the Dangote Group, Mr Hashem Ahmed,
said the company was investing massively in Niger State, adding that it was
ready to partner the state to develop its potential.
“The Dangote Rice Mill in Wushishi when completed will
enhance local rice production and drastically reduce post-harvest losses. We
are also working closely with the Governor’s Office on the Niger Food
Initiative—a game-changing agricultural programme.
“We have committed to serving as a guaranteed off
taker for 1 million metric tons of paddy rice, creating a stable market and
encouraging further private investment.”
Ahmed commended the proactive measures taken by the
Bago administration to foster a business-friendly environment and stimulate
private sector engagement in economic growth.
He said that the government’s strategic policies, such
as the planned establishment of a Free Trade Zone, demonstrate a clear
commitment to attracting investment, enhancing trade, and positioning Niger as
a hub for industrial and agricultural development.
“For Dangote Group and the broader Organized Private
Sector, these initiatives represent a significant and encouraging step forward.
‘’The Free Trade Zone provides a competitive advantage
by streamlining business operations, reducing bottlenecks, and creating a
conducive ecosystem for large-scale investments,” he said.
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