Following a strategic discussion with President Bola Tinubu, Adebayo Ogunlesi, a prominent Nigerian-born international investor, conveyed a revitalized optimism about Nigeria’s economic transformation, hinting at forthcoming substantial investments in sectors such as energy, aviation, and maritime infrastructure.
Sharing this positive outlook was Zacch Adedeji, the executive chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who emphasized that the ongoing reforms are establishing a solid foundation for an export-oriented economy.
In a statement after the confidential meeting, Ogunlesi commended the comprehensive policy initiatives under President Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting key measures like subsidy eliminations, tax system overhauls, and the reactivation of a refinery now supplying aviation fuel for export.
“Our discussion was highly productive, focusing on positioning Nigeria as a prime destination for global investors. The President’s encouragement was invaluable, and we exchanged insightful ideas to accelerate economic expansion,” Ogunlesi remarked.
While he refrained from disclosing exact plans, Ogunlesi confirmed that his investment firm is already engaged in Nigeria and actively exploring new prospects.
“Stay tuned. Nigeria may not yet be the top investment hotspot, but that is precisely the goal we are striving to achieve,” he hinted.
When asked about priority sectors, Ogunlesi pointed to energy, natural gas, aviation, port operations, and renewable energy. Drawing from his firm’s extensive experience with LNG ventures in regions like Texas and Australia, he underscored Nigeria’s vast, largely untapped gas reserves.
Regarding aviation, he acknowledged his identity as “the individual behind the acquisition of Gatwick Airport” and expressed interest in pursuing comparable projects within Nigeria.
Ogunlesi also revealed that one of his companies manages port facilities in Cotonou and Lomé but currently lacks investments in Nigerian ports-a fact President Tinubu reportedly challenged him on.
“He was understanding but firmly stated, ‘You must channel port investments into Nigeria,'” Ogunlesi recalled with a grin.
Another international investor present, Hakeem Bello-Osagie, highlighted the critical role of the Nigerian diaspora in fueling the nation’s development.
“When Nigerians both domestically and abroad commit capital to the country, it sends a powerful message globally,” he noted, praising Tinubu’s reforms for enhancing Nigeria’s appeal to investors.
Reinforcing this view, FIRS chairman Adedeji described the reforms as the groundwork for an export-driven growth model. “The essentials are in place; now it’s time to realize tangible economic progress,” he stated.
With global investors expressing renewed confidence, Nigeria’s economic repositioning is gaining significant momentum, paving the way for transformative investments across vital industries.
