Lagos, Femi Otedola, the Chairman of First Bank Group, says Dangote refinery has liberated Nigeria from the chains of economic dependence.
He commended Aliko Dangote, the Chairman of Dangote Group for the commencement of commercial production of petrol by Dangote Refinery.
Otedola gave the commendation in a statement in Lagos on Tuesday.
Otedola wrote: “You have not just built a refinery; you have liberated us from the chains of economic dependence that have held this nation back for far too long.
“The days of bowing to foreign powers for our fuel needs are over, thanks to your vision and determination.
“You have dealt a death blow to the so-called local cabals who have fattened themselves for years, feeding off our nation’s economic slavery.
“These cabals, who have grown rich by keeping Nigeria in a perpetual state of dependence, must now face the reality that their era of easy gains is coming to an end.
“I am reminded of the time you revolutionised the cement industry in Nigeria. Ships that once brought in cement turned into rusting relics, scraps of a bygone era. Now, with your refinery in full swing, I foresee a similar fate for fuel imports.
“The depot owners should take heed – it’s time to dismantle those depots and sell them as scraps while the market is still high. The world has changed, and those who do not adapt will be left behind.
“When I ventured into the depot business with Zenon, it was in response to the inefficiencies of the NNPC.
“Zenon pioneered the diesel business in Nigeria and quickly became the largest in the country, filling the gaps left by our inefficient system.
“But today, your refinery stands as a beacon of what is possible when one has the audacity to dream and the tenacity to see it through.”
“This day belongs to every Nigerian who has dared to dream of a better future. Congratulations to our great nation – today, we all stand a little taller.”
