The Chairman of the Dangote Group,Alhaji Aliko Dangote,has refuted an allegations of monopoly within the industries his company operates, just as he emphatically denying any obstruction of competitors.
However, while speakin on the issue, Dangote highlighted the competitive landscape present in the Nigerian cement industry when Dangote Cement entered the market.
He disclosed that “When we first came into cement production, it was actually only Lafarge that was operating here in Nigeria, with facilities in Ewekoro and Ashaka in Gombe.
He then added that nobody ever called Lafarge a monopoly,” Dangote stated.
According to him,the first Dangote cement plant had a capacity of 5 million tons, significantly larger than the existing local production of less than 2 million tons at the time.
Dangote however expressed frustration over the persistent monopoly accusations, asserting, “This is really very disheartening when people keep talking about monopoly. It is only when you stop people or block them through legal means.
He therefore stated that” no, it’s a level playing field where whatever Dangote was given, others were given, and some got even more than us.”
While addressing incentives, Dangote clarified that his company did not receive any special treatment from the government.
“We did not collect one single incentive from the Federal Government of Nigeria or from even Lagos State for the refinery.
He then said ” Yes, Lagos State maybe gave us a good deal, but we paid a hundred million dollars for the land. It wasn’t free land.”
He therefore concluded by reiterating his commitment to fair competition, underscoring that his company’s success is not due to monopolistic practices but rather to robust business strategies and investments.