Key quote: Dangote praises Tinubu policies with a “scratch card” metaphor

Dangote praises Tinubu policies and used a vivid image to explain his optimism: “Nigeria is like a scratch card; you only see its true value after scratching it. Some of us who have scratched it are already seeing results.” His message blends praise for policy with a call to action for local investors.

What Dangote said

Speaking at a recent gathering, Dangote praised the administration’s direction and highlighted how decisive policy choices can unlock latent economic value. He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for leadership and emphasised that reforms—though sometimes painful—are necessary for long-term prosperity.

“We must thank Mr President for his leadership and policies,” Dangote said, adding that the government has introduced “very good policies, bold policies that the government have taken today.”

Throughout his remarks, Dangote praises Tinubu policies not as abstract theory but as practical enablers for industry and jobs when paired with local capital deployment.

Policies praised by Dangote

1. New exchange rate framework — stability & predictability

Dangote welcomed the government’s move toward a clearer, more market-driven exchange rate. He argued such clarity reduces distortions, supports exporters, and helps businesses plan investment with confidence. When Dangote praises Tinubu policies on this point, markets listen.

2. Removal of the fuel subsidy — fiscal discipline

He also acknowledged the removal of the fuel subsidy as a difficult but necessary decision. Freed fiscal space, he said, can be redirected to infrastructure and social safety nets—creating a foundation for sustainable growth.

3. Structural reforms — the broader picture

Beyond headline moves, Dangote praised reforms that aim to formalise sectors, improve revenue collection, and incentivise local production. His endorsement suggests a private-sector readiness to partner with government when policies are credible.

Why he calls Nigeria a “scratch card”

The scratch-card analogy captures a layered idea: many assets and opportunities are hidden under visible problems. Nigeria’s strengths—large population, abundant resources, and entrepreneurial energy—become more valuable when reforms reduce friction and open markets.

Scratch-card elements explained

• Hidden value: untapped manufacturing, agriculture and energy potential
• Timing: reforms reveal value slowly; patience matters
• Commitment: returns favour those who invest long-term

For these reasons, Dangote praises Tinubu policies as part of the scratching process that exposes opportunity.

Why Dangote urges entrepreneurs to invest at home

“One advice that I have is that most of our entrepreneurs should please invest at home,” he said. Dangote’s appeal centers on multiplier effects: local investment creates jobs, strengthens value chains, and stabilises the economy.

1. Jobs: Local projects hire locally and boost incomes.
2. Suppliers: Investment builds domestic supplier networks.
3. Resilience: Reduced import dependence supports currency resilience.

When prominent investors heed that call, it signals confidence and often attracts smaller domestic and international investors—another reason Dangote praises Tinubu policies publicly.

Impact on businesses and investors

Dangote’s endorsement lowers perceived policy risk and can influence investor sentiment. In the short term, markets may be volatile, but clearer policy direction and private-sector commitments help stabilise expectations—important for capital expenditure planning.

Short-term vs long-term effects

Short-term inflationary pressures and adjustment pains are possible. Long-term effects, however, include improved investment flows, stronger manufacturing, and sustained job creation—outcomes Dangote expects as he praises Tinubu policies and calls for action.

Analysts’ take & remaining risks

Analysts are cautiously optimistic. They agree the exchange rate reform and subsidy removal are structurally sound, but warn about:

• Short-term inflation and cost of living pressures
• Execution risk—policy consistency matters
• Political resistance to painful adjustments

Even so, the convergence of policy intent and private-sector backing—illustrated when Dangote praises Tinubu policies—reduces some uncertainty for investors.

Conclusion

By calling Nigeria a “scratch card” and publicly endorsing government reforms, Dangote has provided both a metaphor and a practical message: reforms must be accompanied by local capital and patience. He clearly praises Tinubu policies because he believes they can reveal long-term value if investors commit to the process.

For entrepreneurs and policymakers alike, the takeaway is simple: keep scratching—invest locally, support reforms, and be patient for rewards to materialise.