Africa’s richest man and President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has publicly praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as “visionary leadership” in addressing Nigeria’s long-standing infrastructure deficits and coastal flooding challenges.
In an open letter titled “Appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” Dangote highlighted a series of developmental strides achieved under the current administration, especially in Lagos and across key national highways. The letter was made public by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, via a post on 𝕏 (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday.
Dangote, who referenced the landmark Eko Atlantic City and the massive Bar Beach Land Reclamation Project, credited President Tinubu for protecting Victoria Island from the menace of ocean surges, noting that residents and businesses in the area had witnessed significant transformation due to these efforts.
“Your Excellency, this success story… is amongst your many legacies, and those of us who live in Victoria Island are much better off for it,” the billionaire wrote.
He emphasized the significance of the 8.5km sea wall — popularly called the “Great Wall of Lagos” — which has not only halted the threat of coastal erosion but also reclaimed over 1,000 hectares of land now serving commercial, residential, and recreational purposes.
The business mogul also commended the Tinubu administration for tackling chronic flooding on key arteries in Lagos, such as Ahmadu Bello Way, Akin Adesola Street, and Adetokunbo Ademola Street, among others.
Beyond Lagos, Dangote lauded the commencement of the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway and the long-abandoned Sokoto-Badagry superhighway, describing the latter as “a resurrection of a 48-year-old project.” Both projects, he noted, are being executed by Hitech Construction Company Limited, which he referred to as a “first-rate” engineering firm.
Drawing a comparison with land reclamation successes in Zeeland, the Netherlands, Dangote said Nigeria’s efforts under President Tinubu are aligned with global best practices in sustainable urban planning and climate mitigation.
He also extended condolences to victims of a recent flood disaster in Kerr County, Texas, where over 100 people reportedly lost their lives, while reiterating the importance of Nigeria’s climate resilience initiatives.
Reacting to the letter, presidential aide Bayo Onanuga described Dangote’s message as “an honest and thoughtful assessment of President Tinubu’s governance,” especially in contrast to the opposition’s criticisms.
“Dangote’s letter stands in stark contrast to the narrative being pushed by critics. It is a reflection of real progress that cannot be denied,” Onanuga stated.
