Nigeria’s business tycoon, Aliko Dangote, expressed concerns about the challenges faced by investors travelling within Africa due to strict visa policies.
Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum Annual Summit in Kigali, Rwanda, Dangote revealed that he requires 35 visas on his Nigerian passport to move across the continent.
He highlighted the time-consuming process of obtaining these visas as a major obstacle for investors like himself. Dangote also mentioned his conversation with President Kagame regarding the issue, emphasizing the unequal treatment faced by African and foreign passport holders.
In contrast, French passport holder and Chairman of Total Energies, Patrick Pouyanne, highlighted the ease of movement with his passport compared to Dangote’s experience. Pouyanne stressed the importance of collaboration among African nations to achieve common goals, emphasizing the need for intra-regional trade to drive the continent’s development.
Dangote further emphasized the significance of regional markets functioning effectively to support the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement. He underscored the responsibility of Africans to lead the continent’s development, rather than relying on external assistance.
Dangote also announced plans for Nigeria’s self-sufficiency in petrol production once the Dangote refinery begins operations, aiming to address not only domestic but also regional fuel supply challenges in West Africa.
