Billionaire Aliko Dangote has called on Nigeria’s wealthy elite to focus on building industries and creating jobs instead of buying private jets.
Speaking in a viral video, Dangote noted the gap between Nigeria’s growing private jet scene—over 100 registered as of late 2025—and the country’s high youth unemployment and poverty.
“Sometimes it pains me that it’s hard to find parking space for your plane at a local airport in Nigeria because everyone has a private jet. Those jets should be invested in industries so we can create jobs,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of paying taxes. “I don’t mind paying taxes because the government has provided an enabling environment for business to make profits,” Dangote added.
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Social media users responded to his message:
@001Xtasy: “Everybody has a private jet but no one is building things that give people jobs. Imagine if all that money was used to make factories instead of flying around.”
@smokesthegiant: “He’s the only person with a private jet that has the right to say this… he has employed thousands if not millions of Nigerians while a lot of other billionaires just care about their own luxury.”
@AdetunjiAdewolu: “Capital that drives production, jobs, and real sector growth will always outlast luxury assets. The bigger conversation is how to channel wealth into industries that expand opportunity for millions.”
Dangote’s comments have sparked renewed debate over how Nigeria’s elite use their wealth and the need for investments that create jobs.