Dr. Sami Charles, Chairman of ANOG Group, a leading global oil and gas company, has expressed deep concern over recent allegations made by the Nigerian government against Aliko Dangote and the Dangote Group.
Charles labeled the accusations as unfounded and indicative of a troubling trend of harassment against committed investors in Nigeria’s development.
“Our nation is at a crossroads, battling economic challenges exacerbated by years of mismanagement and corruption. It is imperative that we foster an environment conducive to business growth, job creation, and national development. Aliko Dangote’s investment in the Dangote Refinery is a testament to his faith in Nigeria’s potential,” Charles stated.
He found it perplexing to accuse a private enterprise of monopolistic practices while the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) operates inefficiently and without accountability. “The NNPCL’s decades-long failure to refine petroleum products is a glaring indictment of the government’s mismanagement of the oil and gas sector,” he said.
Charles also highlighted the recent report by the House of Representatives on the downstream subsidy scam as a stark reminder of pervasive corruption. He expressed dismay that those responsible for this colossal fraud have escaped justice.
“I urge the government to prioritize addressing the core issues hindering our nation’s progress, such as oil theft, corruption, and the creation of a favorable business climate. By targeting successful entrepreneurs like Aliko Dangote, the government is sending a negative message to both domestic and foreign investors,” Charles concluded.
