Dangote Applauds Tinubu for Landmark Flood Control and Infrastructure Projects
By Patience Ikpeme
President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has publicly praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as visionary efforts in tackling perennial flooding and driving major infrastructure projects across Nigeria.
In an open letter titled “Appreciation”, Dangote noted that President Tinubu’s leadership had led to transformative projects, especially the Bar Beach Land Reclamation initiative that has evolved into Eko Atlantic City, and the nationwide rollout of new superhighways.
The letter, which was shared on Wednesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, drew attention to how these projects have reshaped both the physical and economic landscape of Lagos and other parts of the country.
Dangote linked the success of the Eko Atlantic City—spanning 1,000 hectares and protected by an 8.5-kilometre sea wall—to proactive governance. According to him, this intervention has effectively shielded Victoria Island from ocean surge and created new land for homes, businesses, and recreational spaces. Reflecting on his personal experience as a resident, he said that those living and working in Victoria Island are now “much better off” because of the project.
He contrasted this achievement with the recent tragedy in Kerr County, Texas, USA, where flash floods claimed over 100 lives, pointing out that timely investment in flood control infrastructure, like the Eko Atlantic City project, can save lives and property.
Beyond Lagos, Dangote also mentioned other critical projects launched under Tinubu’s administration, including the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway and the Sokoto-Badagry superhighway. He described the Sokoto-Badagry road as the revival of a 48-year-old plan, now finally moving forward with Hitech Construction Company Limited in charge.
Dangote also drew parallels between Nigeria’s ongoing land reclamation projects and those in the Netherlands’ Zeeland region, where submerged areas were transformed into productive land for farming and housing. He described this as proof of human determination and innovation in turning environmental challenges into opportunities.
In a move to complement the government’s efforts, Dangote announced that his philanthropic arm, the Aliko Dangote Foundation, would soon unveil plans to contribute to a Climate Fund aimed at supporting parts of Nigeria most vulnerable to flooding and other climate-related disasters.
In addition, Dangote Industries Limited sent condolences to families affected by the recent flooding incident in Texas.
Responding to the letter, Bayo Onanuga said Dangote’s words represent a fair and independent perspective on the President’s leadership, especially when compared with opposition narratives claiming that little progress has been made in the past two years.
Through this open letter, Nigeria’s wealthiest businessman has added his voice to those who believe that forward-thinking infrastructure and climate-resilience projects remain critical in building a safer and more prosperous future.
