Chairman of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has warned that the ongoing Middle East conflict could push Nigeria and other African countries to reintroduce work-from-home measures similar to those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dangote made this known on Monday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos. He expressed concern over the economic strain the crisis could place on African economies already grappling with debt and limited financial reserves.
According to him, many Africans depend on daily earnings to survive, making them particularly vulnerable to economic disruptions.
“If the crisis does not de-escalate, the situation will worsen. Many people rely on what they earn daily, and if they cannot work, they may not be able to eat,” he said.
Dangote pointed to measures already being adopted in countries like Indonesia, where workers have been directed to operate fewer days weekly, with discussions ongoing about a full shift to remote work if conditions fail to improve.
He warned that Africa could face similar realities, stating that governments might have no choice but to adopt work-from-home policies to cushion the impact of rising energy costs.
The billionaire businessman also stressed that Africa would bear a heavy burden from a crisis it did not cause, noting that rising oil prices could worsen inflation and deepen hardship across the continent.
He added that small-scale business owners—such as barbers, bakers, and those reliant on generators—would be among the hardest hit due to increased fuel costs.
Dangote called for urgent global efforts to de-escalate the conflict, urging collective prayers and intervention to restore stability.
“We need all hands on deck to ensure this crisis comes to an end,” he said.
Speaking further, Dangote expressed optimism about the outcome of President Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom. He highlighted a £746 million infrastructure deal secured during the trip, describing it as a strong signal of international confidence in Nigeria.
He noted that the agreement could attract further investments from other countries and open new financing opportunities for Nigerian businesses, particularly through access to UK Export Finance.
The industrialist concluded that while the crisis poses serious risks, strategic international partnerships could help Nigeria navigate the challenges ahead.
