President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, has called on federal and state governments to prioritize creating a business-friendly environment for local investors, stressing that their success is critical to unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential and attracting foreign investment.

Speaking at the Taraba International Investment Summit held Wednesday in Jalingo, Dangote emphasized that domestic investors are the backbone of sustainable development, capable of driving job creation, increasing government revenue, and harnessing the country’s vast natural resources.

“We want to remain here and continue to invest in Nigeria to impact the lives of others, as we keep creating jobs and more jobs,” Dangote said.
“When the local investors are doing well, the foreign ones will come without anybody inviting them.”

Commending the Taraba State government for organizing the summit and promoting public-private partnerships, Dangote described the initiative as timely and strategic.

He highlighted the state’s untapped opportunities in agriculture, mining, and tourism, urging authorities to present these assets in ways that appeal to private sector players.

“Foreign direct investment is good, but foreign investors will only come when they see that local investors are thriving. The government must encourage domestic investments first,” he noted.

Dangote further pledged continued support for Nigeria’s economy and vowed to rally other business leaders to invest across the country.

“When you have a good restaurant, you will not need to invite people to come and eat. You will hear them talking about such restaurants,” he said.
“Start with the local investors, and this state shall become the shining star.”

The summit brings renewed focus on state-led efforts to stimulate private sector investment, with Taraba State positioning itself as an emerging destination for inclusive and long-term economic growth.