Nigeria has transformed from being the world’s second-largest cement importer to becoming Africa’s leading cement exporter, according to Aliko Dangote, chairman of the Dangote Group.

Speaking at the Gates Foundation’s Goalkeepers event in Lagos on Wednesday, Dangote highlighted Nigeria’s remarkable shift away from import dependency across multiple key industries, including cement, fertilizers, and petroleum products.

From Importer to Export Leader

The industrial transformation represents a complete reversal of Nigeria’s previous trade position. The West African nation previously ranked as the second-largest cement importer globally but has now achieved export leadership across the African continent.

Beyond cement, Nigeria has made substantial progress in fertilizer production. The country now operates the world’s second-largest fertilizer plant and exports 37% of its production to the United States, addressing previous challenges that had affected local farmers.

Energy Sector Breakthroughs

In the petroleum sector, Dangote announced significant achievements for Nigeria’s refining capacity. The country’s new refinery operates at 650,000 barrels per day, exceeding even Saudi Aramco’s 430,000-barrel capacity to become the world’s largest single refinery.

The facility has already begun making an impact on Nigeria’s trade balance. In May alone, the country exported 400,000 metric tonnes of petroleum motor spirit (petrol), marking a complete departure from its previous 100% import dependency.

Nigeria has also addressed its polypropylene import requirements, previously bringing in 350,000 tonnes annually. The country now plans to meet domestic demand while exporting 600,000 tonnes to other African nations.

Health Sector Partnerships

Dangote also referenced successful health initiatives developed through partnerships with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, including Nigeria’s achievement in ending polio transmission and advancing nutrition programs.

Vision for Healthcare Transformation

Drawing parallels between industrial and healthcare development, Dangote suggested that Nigeria’s business sector successes could serve as a template for transforming healthcare delivery. He emphasized the potential for developing local pharmaceutical manufacturing and reducing Nigeria’s reliance on medical tourism by ensuring quality healthcare access domestically.

The achievements outlined by Dangote reflect Nigeria’s broader economic diversification efforts and movement toward greater self-sufficiency in critical sectors.