•Aliko Dangote-led flood c’ttee delivers N1bn relief materials to Borno
CHIGOZIE AMADI
Dangote Refinery has exported its first consignment of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), otherwise known as petrol, to Cameroon, in what the company described as a landmark move for regional energy integration.
The petroleum product will be received by Neptune Oil in the Central African country, a joint statement by both organisations said yesterday.
The milestone, resulting from a strategic collaboration between the two companies, the statement said, underscores the parties’ commitment to strengthening economic ties between Nigeria and Cameroon while meeting the region’s growing energy demands.
Located in Lagos, Nigeria, Dangote Refinery is the largest single-train refinery in the world, with a processing capacity of 650,000 barrels per day. It is a flagship project of the Dangote Group, which says it’s dedicated to transforming Africa’s energy landscape.
On the other hand, Neptune Oil is a leading energy company in Cameroon, committed to providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions. Through collaborations with international partners, Neptune Oil plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth in the region, the statement added.
President and Chief Executive of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, in his remarks on the deal, said it was part of plans to lay the foundation for Africa’s self-sufficiency in the energy sector.
“This first export of PMS to Cameroon is a tangible demonstration of our vision for a united and energy-independent Africa. With this development, we are laying the foundation for a future where African resources are refined and exchanged within the continent for the benefit of our people,” he said.
Director and Owner of Neptune Oil, Antoine Ndzengue, on his part, described the deal as a turning point for Cameroon.
He said: “This partnership with Dangote Refinery marks a turning point for Cameroon. By becoming the first importer of petroleum products from this world-class refinery, we are bolstering our country’s energy security and supporting local economic development.
“This initial supply, executed without international intermediaries, reflects our commitment to serving our markets independently and efficiently.”
The collaboration between Dangote Refinery and Neptune Oil, the company said. does not end with this first export. Both companies added that they are exploring new initiatives to establish a reliable supply chain that will help stabilise fuel prices and create new economic opportunities across the region.
“For Nigeria, this export showcases Dangote Refinery’s ability to meet domestic needs and position itself as a key player in the regional energy market. It represents a significant step forward in accessing high-quality and locally sourced petroleum products for Cameroon,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the Aliko Dangote-led Presidential Committee on Flood Relief and Rehabilitation (PCFRR) has delivered emergency relief materials valued at N1 billion to the Government of Borno State for onward distribution to persons affected by the 2024 flood in the state.
During the handover ceremony held yesterday in Maiduguri, the Secretary of the Presidential Committee on Flood Relief and Rehabilitation, Mrs. Hajara Modu, said the committee was committed to supporting flood-affected communities.
Representing the co-chairmen, Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, the Secretary said that the distribution of food and non-food items fulfilled the pledge made by the committee at the height of the 2024 flood disaster.
In early September 2024, Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, experienced catastrophic flooding that submerged approximately 70 per cent of the city. This made Borno State the most severely affected region in Nigeria during this year’s flood season.
Modu said the President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, had earlier announced the donation of N2 billion.
According to her, of the N2 billion donation announced by Dangote, N1 billion was on behalf of the committee for the procurement and supply of relief materials to the flood victims in Borno, and the other N1 billion was donated by the Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF).
She described Aliko Dangote as very passionate about philanthropy, adding that the committee set up in 2012 by former President Goodluck Jonathan had only a year to work, but it continued to address the flood disasters in the country through his help.
The Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Zulum, expressed gratitude to the committee for its substantial interventions in the state, a statement by the company said.
The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Mr. Umar Kadafur said the state government had set up a committee to ensure that relief items reach victims of flooding.
He noted that Alhaji Aliko Dangote, through the committee and his foundation, has consistently provided support in various forms, addressing critical needs in Borno.
Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) Mrs. Zubaida Umar, who was represented by the Director of Relief and Rehabilitation, Abdullahi Usur, listed some of the items to include: beans, seasoning, salt, sugar, tomato paste, vegetable oil, foam mattress and guinea brocade.
Others included: wax print, blankets, mosquito nets, nylon mat, bathing soap, detergent, children diapers and sanitary pads.
