Taiwo Ogunniyi
The House of Representatives has thrown its weight behind the industrialization efforts of Dangote Group, particularly in Nigeria’s cement industry.
Federal lawmakers who visited the Dangote Cement plant in Obajana, Kogi State, expressed their admiration for the company’s significant contributions to the nation’s economy.
Leading the delegation, Hon. Gaza Jonathan Gbefwi, Chairman of the House Committee on Solid Minerals, emphasized the critical role that collaboration between Nigeria’s political leaders and investors plays in driving industrialization.
He highlighted Dangote Cement’s substantial investments, job creation, and tax contributions as key factors in advancing the nation’s economic growth.
During the visit, the lawmakers explored the ongoing issue of rising cement prices.
Mr. Arvind Pathak, Group Managing Director of Dangote Cement Plc, attributed the high prices to the fluctuating exchange rates and the fact that most inputs for cement production, except for limestone, are imported and dollar-driven.
These inputs include machinery, spare parts, fuel, and gypsum, a vital raw material.
Pathak also noted that Dangote Group is Nigeria’s largest private-sector employer, with salaries seeing significant increases from 2021 to 202