Niger State Seeks Dangote, Private Investors’ Partnership in Bida Basin Oil Exploration

The Niger State Government has called on the Dangote Group and other private sector investors to participate in the exploration of crude oil in the Bida Basin area of the state.

Speaking during a fireside session at the Dangote Special Day held at the recently concluded Niger National Trade Fair in Minna, the Commissioner for Trade, Investment, Industry and Private Sector Development, Hon. Aminu Suleiman Takuma, said the state government is adopting a one-stop-shop model to partner with private investors in developing its crude oil potential.

According to him, the state government will retain only a minimal stake in the project through a joint venture Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.

Takuma commended the Dangote Group for its investment drive, particularly the construction of what he described as the world’s largest refinery. He added that Niger State remains open to business and committed to implementing policies that will continue to attract investors.

Also speaking at the event, the Regional Director and Senior Adviser to Aliko Dangote, Fatima Wali Abdurrahman, described Dangote Group as a natural partner to Niger State, citing the company’s significant investment in rice processing in Wushishi.

She praised Governor Umaru Bago for introducing investor-friendly policies and assured that the Dangote Group would continue to strengthen its partnership with the state government.

The Commissioners for Homeland Security, as well as Agriculture and Food Security, were also part of the discussion panel. The Emir of Minna was represented at the event by Dr. Umar Bakai.

Dangote Group was the major sponsor of the trade fair.