Femi Otedola, a prominent Nigerian billionaire, has congratulated Aliko Dangote on the successful launch of the Dangote Refinery, describing it as a “death blow” to the entrenched fuel import cartels that have long exploited Nigeria’s dependence on foreign oil. In a heartfelt letter, Otedola praised the refinery’s historic achievement, hailing it as a transformative moment for Nigeria’s energy independence and a decisive end to the economic stranglehold that has kept the country reliant on imported fuel for decades.

Otedola reflected on the 25-year journey that led to this milestone, recalling the early days when he and Dangote first set out to revolutionize Nigeria’s energy sector. Despite facing setbacks, including the government’s thwarting of their initial plans to acquire stakes in government-owned refineries, Dangote’s determination never wavered. Otedola commended Dangote for his relentless pursuit of their shared vision, saying he has “liberated us from the chains of economic dependence” and dealt a significant blow to fuel import cartels.

Otedola also drew parallels between Dangote’s transformation of the cement industry and the potential impact on the fuel market, predicting a similar fate for fuel imports. He advised depot owners to dismantle their operations, signaling a new era where domestic fuel production will render import-dependent infrastructures obsolete.

Otedola also shared his own experiences in the energy sector, including the establishment of Zenon Petroleum and Gas Limited, which became Nigeria’s largest diesel supplier. He acknowledged that while Zenon filled a critical gap, the Dangote Refinery stands as a beacon of what is possible with determination and vision.

Concluding his letter, Otedola expressed his profound respect and admiration for Dangote and the entire team at the Dangote Refinery, saying the refinery’s success is a victory for all Nigerians who dare to dream. He hinted that this achievement could be just the beginning of even greater things to come, as Nigeria is poised to significantly reduce its reliance on imported fuel, marking the start of a new chapter in the nation’s economic history.