Dangote warns Africa may adopt COVID-style work-from-home as Middle East crisis spikes oil prices, urging prayers and global intervention
Chairman and CEO of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has cautioned that ongoing tensions in the Middle East could force Nigeria and other African countries to adopt COVID-era work-from-home measures if the conflict persists.
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Dangote issued the warning on Monday following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the presidential residence in Ikoyi, Lagos.
He expressed concern about the impact of oil price volatility on African economies already burdened by debt.
The industrialist cited Indonesia’s response to recent energy pressures, where authorities reduced workweeks to four days and are considering full remote work arrangements to mitigate economic strain.
“If this thing doesn’t de-escalate, we will do like that time of COVID, where people will work from home,” Dangote said, emphasising the disproportionate effect on ordinary Africans operating small businesses.
He specifically mentioned barbers, bread makers, and industries reliant on private generators.
Dangote highlighted that Africa faces the crisis with limited reserves, noting that many rely on daily earnings for survival.
He urged urgent prayers and international intervention to end the conflict.
The billionaire also commented on President Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom, expressing optimism that the £746m infrastructure agreement signed during the trip will boost investor confidence and unlock further funding.
“This is not about the money. It’s about the confidence in Nigeria,” Dangote said, adding that Nigerian investors could now access the UK Export Finance agency, a largely untapped credit resource.
The Middle East crisis has raised global concerns about oil price volatility, inflation, and energy-dependent sectors.
Despite being an oil-producing nation, Nigeria remains vulnerable due to its reliance on imported refined petroleum products.
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Dangote concluded by urging collective action and prayers to mitigate the crisis and safeguard African economies from further strain.
