The Niger State Government has called on the Dangote Group and other private investors to participate in crude oil exploration in the Bida Basin as part of efforts to tap into the state’s natural resources and attract more economic development.

This appeal was made during a session at the Niger National Trade Fair in Minna, where officials highlighted the state’s readiness to work with private sector players under a public-private partnership model.

The government said it plans to retain only a small stake in the project while allowing investors to take the lead in funding and operations.

According to the Commissioner for Trade, Investment, Industry and Private Sector Development, Aminu Takuma, Niger State is putting structures in place to make investment easier through a One-Stop-Shop framework designed to reduce bureaucratic delays and encourage business participation.

He noted that the state is open to partnerships across key sectors and is focused on unlocking the economic potential of the Bida Basin, which has long been identified as a possible crude oil-bearing area.

Takuma also commended the Dangote Group for its role in Nigeria’s industrial growth, especially its major refinery project, describing it as a landmark achievement in the country’s energy sector.

Representing the Dangote Group, Fatima Wali Abdurrahman said the company views Niger State as a strategic partner, pointing to its existing investments in rice processing as evidence of ongoing collaboration.

She added that the group welcomes policies that support private sector growth and expressed interest in strengthening its relationship with the state government.

The event also featured other state officials, including commissioners for homeland security and agriculture, as well as representatives of traditional leadership in Minna.

The Dangote Group was the headline sponsor of the trade fair, which served as a platform for discussions on investment opportunities in the state.