Africa’s richest man and President of Dangote Industries Limited, Aliko Dangote, has described Nigerian youths as the country’s most valuable asset, praising their ingenuity, resilience and global competitiveness.
Dangote made the remarks at the weekend when he was conferred with an honorary Doctorate Degree in Management Technology (D.MT) by the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).
Represented by his Special Adviser, Engr. Mansur Ahmed, the foremost industrialist said young Nigerians have consistently demonstrated exceptional creativity and innovative spirit in various fields.
He stressed that with proper support, the youths possess the capacity to drive transformative growth across sectors and reposition Nigeria as a leading economic force in Africa.
Dangote commended FUTO for its commitment to practical, technology-driven education and its role in nurturing young innovators.
He said the institution, like other technology-based universities, remains central to unlocking the potential of the country’s youthful population.
“At FUTO, knowledge is not only acquired but applied to solve real societal challenges, from unemployment to infrastructure gaps.
“This blend of learning and problem-solving is precisely what our nation needs at this defining moment in its history,” he said.
Dangote noted that although Nigeria faces major economic and social challenges, the nation equally sits on enormous opportunities, driven by its vibrant youth population, abundant natural resources, and unmatched entrepreneurial spirit.
Reflecting on his business journey, Dangote said entrepreneurship remains a powerful tool for turning national challenges into drivers of prosperity.
According to him, when young people are equipped with technical skills, mentorship, and access to capital, they transition from job seekers to job creators, thereby strengthening industries, diversifying the economy and promoting sustainable development.
He expressed the readiness of Dangote Industries to deepen collaboration with FUTO and other academic institutions to support innovation, research, and enterprise development.
“The Dangote Group stands ready to partner in ways that bring together education, technology and enterprise, supporting research, nurturing startups, and enabling innovation that responds directly to Nigeria’s most pressing needs.
“Together, we can build an ecosystem that rewards hard work, nurtures creativity, and positions Nigeria as a hub for Africa’s economic resurgence,” he stated.
Addressing the graduating students, Dangote identified integrity, hard work and discipline as essential values for long-term success.
He told them that their names remain their greatest assets, urging them to protect their reputation in all circumstances.
“Talent opens the door, but consistency takes you across the finish line. True wealth is measured not in accumulation, but in the number of lives touched and improved,” he said.
He encouraged the graduates to dream boldly, remain grounded and uphold strong principles, noting that Nigeria’s future will be shaped by those who actively create solutions rather than wait for change.
Dangote expressed gratitude to the Council, Senate and Management of FUTO for the honour, saying it further strengthens his commitment to national development, investment in education, and initiatives that promote a more prosperous and self-reliant Africa.
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