Aliko Dangote, the esteemed President and Chief Executive Officer of Dangote Refinery, has unequivocally asserted that the Ajaokuta Steel Company is destined for dysfunction.
Dangote voiced profound skepticism regarding the feasibility of the Ajaokuta Steel Company, articulating that establishing a thriving nation without an operational steel industry is simply inconceivable.
In a compelling video disseminated on social media, he underlined the imperative for advancement and the necessity to embrace change to prevent obsolescence.
He stated: “No nation can be constructed without a robust steel industry, and quite frankly, Ajaokuta Steel Company is not viable for us.
“We can continue to delude ourselves and nurture passion for it, but the reality is stark.
“Consider those vehicles we once manufactured for Volkswagen, the Igala. If you place the Igala beside a modern Kia today, can you really draw a comparison? Absolutely not.
“Times have evolved; I was waiting for my chauffeur in Italy, and when Tuesday came without him, my assistant summoned an Uber to take us to a restaurant. The driver was gracious enough to offer us mints, but I kindly declined.
“I remarked on the quality of the vehicle, and he informed me that it was a Tesla electric model and that our electricity costs are quite steep here. I inquired about the expense of charging, and he replied that it costs around €20 for a full charge capable of traversing 500 kilometers.
“Change is inevitable, and we must all adapt, or else risk becoming antiquated. It’s akin to digging into graveyards to resurrect the deceased for a sprint or pulling someone from their deathbed to compete in a hundred-meter race—such acts are utterly impossible.
“I cherish Nigerians, for only they would sprint to the airport without a confirmed reservation, creating quite the ruckus.”
