Aliko Dangote, chairman of the Dangote Group, has cautioned that the ongoing Middle East conflict could push Nigeria and other African countries toward reintroducing remote work measures similar to those seen during the COVID-19 pandemic if tensions continue.
Dangote issued the warning on Monday after a meeting with Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos, highlighting concerns over oil price volatility and its potential impact on already fragile African economies.
He stressed that prolonged instability could worsen living conditions, particularly for individuals who depend on daily income. According to him, “If this thing doesn’t de-escalate, some people, if they don’t work that day, they won’t eat.”
Dangote noted that some countries, including Indonesia, have already adopted shorter work weeks and are considering a shift to full remote work as a way to manage rising energy costs.
Drawing parallels with the pandemic period, he suggested that similar measures could become necessary. He warned that informal workers and small business owners—such as barbers, bakers, and small-scale manufacturers—would be among the hardest hit, especially those reliant on generators for daily operations.
He further called for urgent global efforts to de-escalate the conflict, warning that continued unrest could deepen economic hardship across Africa.
On a more positive note, Dangote expressed optimism following President Tinubu’s recent visit to the United Kingdom, stating that a £746 million infrastructure deal could help boost investor confidence in Nigeria.
