Dangote warns Middle East tensions could force Nigerians into work-from-home mode

President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has cautioned that rising tensions in the Middle East may push Nigeria and other African nations toward pandemic-style work-from-home policies if the crisis worsens.

Dangote issued the warning on Monday after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi, Lagos residence, highlighting concerns over fluctuating global oil prices and their potential impact on African economies already burdened by debt.

He noted that many Africans lack savings and rely on daily earnings, making them highly vulnerable to economic shocks. Dangote referenced Indonesia’s adoption of a four-day workweek and the possibility of full remote work as an example of global measures being considered to cope with energy crises.

“The impact will be most severe on everyday workers and small-scale entrepreneurs, particularly those reliant on fuel-powered operations such as barbers, bakers, and small industries,” he said.

Dangote urged collective prayers and swift global action to resolve the conflict, while also expressing optimism about President Tinubu’s recent UK visit. He highlighted a £746 million infrastructure deal as a signal of confidence in Nigeria, noting it could encourage further international partnerships.

He added that Nigerian investors now have access to financing from the UK Export Finance agency, a largely underutilised resource, stating: “It means that the agency now is open for business for Nigerians, and we will go as private people to look for them to give us support.”