Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has committed N8 billion to support the construction of a presidential library in honor of former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB). The announcement was made on Thursday, February 20, 2025, during the public presentation of IBB’s autobiography, A Journey in Service, and the accompanying fundraising event held in Abuja.
Dangote revealed that his donation would be disbursed in installments of N2 billion annually over four years. He emphasized Babangida’s impact on Nigeria’s economic landscape, crediting his administration for introducing policies that empowered private sector growth.
“Your Excellency, I could list numerous reforms you initiated that liberated the private sector, making Nigeria the African nation with the highest level of private sector involvement in GDP,” Dangote stated. “Unlike in many other countries, where government contributes significantly to GDP, Nigeria’s private sector drives 85% of the economy.”
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The business mogul further expressed confidence in the project’s long-term success, pledging to continue his contributions beyond the initial four years if necessary.
Several other prominent Nigerians also announced major donations to the library project. Abdul Samad Rabiu, founder of BUA Group, contributed N5 billion, while retired General Theophilus Danjuma, through the TY Danjuma Foundation, pledged N3 billion. Senate President Godswill Akpabio committed N50 million, industrialist Arthur Eze donated N500 million, and Fidelity Bank’s Mustafa Chike-Obi contributed N100 million.
The fundraising initiative aims to establish a lasting legacy for Babangida, celebrating his role in Nigeria’s history and governance.
