Dangote Reveals Nigeria’s Tax Reality—52 Kobo from Every ₦1 Generated

The Business of Taxation—How Government Profits from Private Industry

At the 2025 Taraba International Investment Summit, billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote dropped a staggering revelation—for every ₦1 his cement company generates, the Nigerian government takes 52 kobo.

Let that sink in.

While many assume that private companies solely benefit from their profits, Dangote’s statement highlights how business taxes fuel national revenue, funding education, healthcare, infrastructure, and social programs.

“Government Has No Business in Business”—Dangote’s Perspective

Dangote’s argument is simple—governments don’t need to run businesses to make money, they just need to support private industry and tax it efficiently.

“We always say that the government has no business in business. But how will they make money for education, hospitals, roads, and infrastructure? Through taxes,” he explained.

Nigeria vs. Global Tax Models

Dangote pointed to the United States, a country that doesn’t own oil blocks, yet remains the world’s biggest oil producer. How? Taxation.

He emphasized that foreign investors won’t come into a country unless local businesses are thriving, urging Nigerian authorities to create a business-friendly environment to attract global capital.

What’s Next for Nigeria’s Tax Policy?

As Dangote continues to expand investments, including his petrochemical and refinery ventures, the big question remains—how will Nigeria balance taxation and business growth?

Will the government ease tax pressures to boost local entrepreneurship, or will business leaders push back against excessive levies?

For now, Dangote’s words have sparked a crucial conversation on Nigeria’s economic future.