To address Nigeria’s staggering fuel importation bill and promote economic growth and inclusivity, the Centre For Ability, Rehabilitation, and Empowerment (CARE) has backed the Dangote Refinery project.
A statement signed by CARE’s Founder and Chief Responsibility Officer, Dr. Chike Okogwu, highlighted the refinery’s significance in reducing fuel imports, stabilizing the exchange rate, and creating a more inclusive economy.
“Nigeria’s fuel importation bill is a major drain on our foreign exchange reserves, leading to exchange rate hikes and increased costs for Persons with Disabilities (PWDs),” Dr. Okogwu said.
“The Dangote Refinery has the potential to reduce fuel imports, conserve foreign exchange, and stabilize the exchange rate, making it easier for PWDs to access essential services and participate in economic activities.”
“The Dangote Refinery, with its 650,000 barrels-per-day capacity, is expected to significantly reduce fuel imports, lower transport costs for PWDs, reduce the financial burden on PWDs, increase access to affordable electricity, produce petrochemicals and fertilizers to encourage PWD agribusiness investment, create employment opportunities for PWDs, and stimulate economic growth, leading to increased investment in disability-inclusive infrastructure and services.”
Dr. Okogwu also commended the Dangote Foundation for its commitment to supporting PWDs through various initiatives, including scholarship programs, donations, accessibility modifications, health interventions, and economic empowerment programs.
“The Dangote Foundation has demonstrated a genuine commitment to empowering PWDs, and we urge the government to support this project, ensuring its timely completion and operation,” Dr. Okogwu said.
In a related development, the Managing Director of Total, Mr. Patrick Pouyanné, recently highlighted the challenges faced by investors in Nigeria, including the country’s unstable regulatory environment, lack of infrastructure, and high operating costs.
The Dangote Refinery’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic growth and inclusivity is seen as a beacon of hope, demonstrating to investors that Nigeria is a viable destination for investment, with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment of PWDs.
As Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges of high petroleum costs and their impact on PWDs, the Dangote Refinery project offers a glimmer of hope for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
He noted that investors leave Nigeria due to the country’s unstable regulatory environment, lack of infrastructure, and high operating costs.
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“This has a significant impact on investments in Nigeria, as it discourages potential investors and hinders economic growth.”
“By supporting this project, we can demonstrate to investors that Nigeria is a viable destination for investment, with a focus on inclusivity and empowerment of PWDs.”
“In conclusion, the Dangote Refinery and Foundation are crucial players in promoting inclusivity and empowering PWDs. We urge the government to support this project, ensuring its timely completion and operation. Together, we can create a brighter future for all Nigerians, including PWDs.”
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