Gov. Buni Approves Purchase of Dangote Refinery Shares for 43,928 Yobe Women

Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has greenlit a ₦230.62 million investment for acquiring shares in Dangote Refinery for 43,928 vulnerable women residing in the state's 17 Local Government Areas. This initiative, spearheaded by the state government under the direction of Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Mohammed Goje, emerged from high-level discussions during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The Secretary to the State Government presented these proposals to the Aliko Dangote Foundation, aiming to foster private-sector partnerships for the empowerment of conflict-affected households and vulnerable women in Yobe State.

Mamman Mohammed, the Director-General of Press and Media Affairs for the Governor, explained that the discussions at UNGA sparked interest in this partnership proposal. The Aliko Dangote Foundation is set to match the state government's contribution with an equivalent grant, potentially expanding the initiative into a comprehensive investment opportunity worth around ₦461.24 million, subject to standard Initial Public Offering conditions and successful share allotment.

Each of the 43,928 women selected for this program will receive 20 shares in their name, credited to a Central Securities Clearing System account, which underlines the initiative's focus on promoting financial independence and personal asset ownership among beneficiaries.

Prioritizing women from conflict-affected households, widows, those with disabilities, and those living in extreme poverty, this initiative aligns with Governor Buni's broader strategy of fostering inclusive growth, supporting vulnerable households, and enhancing economic resilience in Yobe State. Dr. Mohammed Goje emphasized that this move transcends mere financial aid, positioning these women not as mere beneficiaries but as potential shareholders in the Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals, thereby fostering long-term economic empowerment.