A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governorship candidate in Kebbi State, Mallam Salihu Isa Nataro, has called on Nigerians to consider a potential Aliko Dangote–Alex Otti presidential ticket as a viable pathway to economic recovery and industrial transformation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking in Abuja on Sunday, Nataro said a partnership between Africa’s richest man, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, would offer the kind of visionary and technocratic leadership required to tackle unemployment, reduce poverty, and accelerate nationwide industrialisation.
“If Dangote can step down as chairman of all his conglomerates, as he has already done with two companies, Nigerians will gladly support him to contest alongside Otti. Together, they can industrialise Nigeria within a short period,” Nataro said.
The APC stalwart, who is also a public sector reform advocate, argued that both men have demonstrated competence in enterprise management and governance, qualities he said are essential for rebuilding public confidence and addressing Nigeria’s deepening economic challenges.
He criticised state governments for neglecting key development areas such as vocational training, agriculture, and youth empowerment, which he described as crucial for job creation and social stability.
“Economic policies that promote industrialisation will help reduce drug abuse and criminal activity among unemployed youths who are struggling to survive,” he added.
Nataro commended Governor Otti for his reform-oriented governance in Abia State, saying his administration’s emphasis on transparency and innovation aligns with global standards.
“Governor Otti stands out among the current crop of governors because of the way he manages critical development sectors. His move to seek low-interest credit facilities from the United Arab Emirates reflects foresight and accountability,” he said.
He also expressed confidence that an Otti presidency would strengthen Nigeria’s anti-corruption agencies—including the ICPC, EFCC, and Code of Conduct Bureau—to ensure that individuals indicted for graft are not returned to public office.
While acknowledging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy, Nataro said Nigeria’s challenges require a stronger sense of urgency and commitment from federal appointees.
He praised Dangote for his immense contributions to Africa’s industrial growth and urged political leaders to encourage him to seek higher office.
“Alhaji Dangote is a tested technocrat with the vision and experience to drive inclusive growth. His leadership would inspire investor confidence and rebuild the economy,” Nataro stated.
On government revenue generation, the APC chieftain supported fair taxation but cautioned against what he described as “forceful revenue collection,” particularly in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“Revenue generation should not come through coercion or punitive measures that discourage business operations. Leaders like Dangote and Otti understand how to balance economic growth with investor confidence,” he said.
Nataro further urged the federal government to promote fiscal discipline, reduce public spending, and remove what he called “liars, looters, and deceivers” from its cabinet in order to restore public trust.
“Nigeria needs leaders with proven competence and compassion, not career politicians,” he concluded. “A Dangote–Otti ticket, if it ever happens, would represent a new dawn for Nigeria’s economy.”
Source:Africa Publicity
