Nigerian-born billionaire investor Bayo Ogunlesi has revealed plans to channel fresh investments into Nigeria’s ports, following earlier projects in Togo and Benin.
Speaking after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu during Nigeria’s 65th Independence celebrations, Ogunlesi highlighted the government’s recent reforms as a catalyst for foreign investment.
“I confessed to Mr. President that one of our companies has a port in Cotonou and one in Lomé, but none in Nigeria. I asked for his forgiveness, and being the gentleman that he is, he forgave me — but said, you must bring port investment to Nigeria.”
Ogunlesi said discussions with the President focused on expanding Nigeria’s role as a hub for international capital.
“We talked about how to put Nigeria front and centre on the map for global investors. We’re already making investments, and you’ll soon see more. Just watch this space.”
Reforms Driving Confidence
The founder of Global Infrastructure Partners praised Tinubu’s policies, citing the removal of fuel subsidies, tax reforms, unification of ownership systems, and the commissioning of new refineries as indicators of progress.
“Nigeria is now an exciting place to invest,” Ogunlesi said. “These reforms have created the foundations for economic transformation, and international investors are taking notice.”
Expanding Across Multiple Sectors
Beyond ports, Ogunlesi revealed that GIP is looking at opportunities across energy and aviation.
“We are building LNG plants in Texas and Australia. Nigeria is a huge gas province, and that’s an area we are very interested in. People describe me as the guy who bought Gatwick Airport — well, aviation is another sector of focus for us.”
Optimism About Nigeria’s Future
Ogunlesi closed by affirming his confidence in Nigeria’s direction under Tinubu’s leadership:
“The President has carried out fundamental reforms. The next stage is building an export-led economy. Nigeria’s hope is rising, and we will play our part in delivering on that promise.”