Shettima Sparks Debate, Says Lagos Produced Africa’s Two Richest Men
Vice President Kashim Shettima has stirred fresh debate over Nigeria’s economic landscape, declaring that Lagos, rather than Kano, was instrumental in producing Africa’s two richest businessmen, Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu.
Shettima made the remark while highlighting Lagos’ role as Nigeria’s commercial hub and a key driver of economic success.
“It was Lagos that gave Africa its richest man, not Kano. Aliko Dangote is a Lagos man. Again, it was not Kano but Lagos that gave Africa its second richest man, Abdulsamad Ishaq Rabiu (BUA). Lagos made almost everybody who is who in Nigeria,” the Vice President said.
The statement underscored Lagos’ long-standing reputation as the country’s economic nerve centre, attracting entrepreneurs, investors and businesses from across Nigeria and beyond.
Dangote, founder of the Dangote Group, and Rabiu, chairman of BUA Group, are widely regarded among Africa’s most successful business figures, with interests spanning cement, sugar, agriculture, manufacturing and infrastructure.
Shettima’s comments have since generated reactions on social media, with supporters citing Lagos’ role in providing the market, infrastructure and opportunities that enabled major businesses to thrive, while others argued that the entrepreneurs’ roots and business journeys extend beyond the state.
The Vice President’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about regional contributions to Nigeria’s economic development and the importance of creating enabling environments for businesses across the country.
