An All Progressives Congress leader and former Kebbi State governorship aspirant, Mallam Salihu Isa Nataro, has advocated for a 2027 presidential partnership between industrialist Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti, arguing that technocratic leadership is essential to address Nigeria’s economic difficulties.
Nataro proposed a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, emphasizing that Nigeria needs leaders with proven expertise in economic management to tackle unemployment, hunger, and widespread poverty.
He expressed confidence that the combined experience of an industrialist and a reform-oriented administrator could drive efforts to boost production and curb youth unrest.
“Should Dangote relinquish his position as chairman across his business empire, similar to recent moves in two of his companies, Nigerians would rally behind him to run alongside Otti and transform the nation’s industrial landscape rapidly,” Nataro stated.
The APC figure, who champions public sector transformation, criticized state administrations for failing to prioritize vocational education, agro-based industries, and skills development programs that generate employment opportunities.
He argued that economic programs focused on job creation would help steer young people away from criminal activity and substance abuse.
Nataro highlighted Otti’s dedication to development goals in Abia State, describing him as among the few governors implementing results-oriented governance strategies. He pointed to the governor’s pursuit of affordable international credit facilities to fund state development projects.
He also praised Dangote’s role in advancing industrial development across Africa, suggesting that his track record in running major enterprises could inform effective economic policymaking at the federal level.
Regarding revenue collection, Nataro endorsed fair taxation practices but condemned what he termed indiscriminate enforcement of ground rent and Certificate of Occupancy charges in certain Federal Capital Territory areas.
“Revenue generation must be handled carefully to avoid discouraging business activity or investment. Accumulated ground rent should be collected gradually to ease the financial strain on residents and businesses,” he remarked.
While acknowledging federal government initiatives aimed at economic stabilization, Nataro observed that the magnitude of Nigeria’s challenges requires improved coordination and greater responsiveness to public concerns.
He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to assess the performance of his appointees and emphasize efficiency, accountability, and transparency in executing government policies.
