The Dangote Group says it is deliberately playing a vital role in Nigeria’s sustainable development, spearheading efforts to achieve energy security, diversify the economy, and rejuvenate agriculture through strategic investments in refining, petrochemicals, fertilizers, and agro-industrial initiatives that promote self-sufficiency, job creation, and inclusive national growth.
The group disclosed this during the 1st National Food Security Summit 2025, organized by the Youth Farmers Organization for Agricultural Development in Nigeria (YFOADN).
The summit saw young farmers, policymakers, and experts discuss strategies to boost food production, promote sustainable agriculture, and address Nigeria’s food security challenges.
Speaking at the Summit Monday in Abuja with the theme: “Building a Food Secure Nigeria Through Youth Empowerment and Sustainable Agriculture,” YFOADN President Amb. Abdulrahman Umar Etudaye stated that the event aims to forge strategic partnerships and inspire a youth-driven agricultural transformation.
Amb. Etudaye said : “We pay glowing tribute to Alhaji Aliko Dangote, a visionary leader whose patriotism, industrial innovation, and dedication to Nigeria’s growth remain exemplary.”
He also commended the Vice President of Dangote Refinery, Mr. Devakumar G. Edwin, describing his support for youth development in agriculture as highly significant.
He noted that such backing not only provides vital resources and mentorship but also creates opportunities for young farmers to access modern farming techniques, funding, and markets, thereby empowering them to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s agricultural growth and food security.
According to him, the Dangote Refinery is a critical national asset that deserves the support and engagement of Nigerian youth, noting that their active participation can drive its growth, enhance local value chains, create employment opportunities, and contribute significantly to the country’s economic development and energy security.
“The Dangote Refinery stands as a national asset-a beacon of hope, a catalyst for job creation, and a testament to what is possible when vision meets determination,” he added.
Also speaking, Senator Saliu Mustapha, who represents Kwara Central Senatorial District, said Nigeria has the potential to feed itself through large-scale agriculture practices.
Senator Mustapha who was represented by a Senior Legislative Aide, Bar. Salam A. Salman, said with vast arable land, Nigeria needs to rally round the government and prioritize commercial farming with youth on the front burner.
In his remarks, Hon. Ahmed Adamu Saba, a member of the House of Representatives representing Edu/Moro/Patigi Federal Constituency in Kwara State, praised the Dangote Group for its support of youth farmers across Nigeria.
He added : I have been aware of their practical impact since 2017, during the Dangote Youth Rice Farm Project in Ejiba, Kogi State, where young Nigerians from across the country were trained and empowered in modern rice farming.”
The lawmaker said food security remains a great challenge in Nigeria of our time, adding that climate change and insecurity in farming communities have contributed to low output in the sector.
The Food Summit also featured the launch of the Youth in Agriculture Programme and the flag-off of the Youth Empowerment Farm Project. (vitalnewsngr.com)
