Dangote Plans Fertilizer Self-Sufficiency Across Africa in 40 Months

Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote has announced an ambitious plan for Africa to achieve full self-sufficiency in fertilizer production within the next 40 months through the expansion of his $2.5 billion fertilizer plant near Lagos. Currently, Africa imports over six million metric tons of fertilizer annually, a costly dependence that Dangote aims to eliminate by doubling the plant's production capacity to become the world's largest urea producer, surpassing Qatar. This expansion is expected to significantly boost Africa's food security, reduce foreign exchange burdens, and create economic growth opportunities, with the company targeting daily revenues of up to $20 million and promising substantial dividends to shareholders. Dangote also emphasized the importance of adopting bold economic policies that prioritize local investment and industrialization, drawing parallels to President Trump's focus on domestic interests. Despite challenges such as infrastructure bottlenecks and cost overruns, analysts recognize the strong growth potential in the fertilizer market and view Dangote's track record of delivering major projects as a positive factor. Additionally, Dangote Fertilizer Limited plans to list on the Nigerian Exchange, signaling confidence in its long-term growth and contribution to Africa's agricultural independence.