Danish Company Maersk Denies $600 Million Investment Deal With President Tinubu
Robert Maersk Uggla, the chairman of A.P. Moller-Maersk, a prominent Danish shipping company, has denied reports of finalizing a $600 million investment agreement with the Nigerian government. Despite assertions from an aide to President Bola Tinubu suggesting otherwise, Mr. Maersk clarified that no such deal has been formalized.
Reports of the purported investment deal emerged following a meeting between Mr. Maersk and Mr. Tinubu at a special session of the World Economic Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. According to a statement from the State House, Mr. Maersk allegedly committed to investing $600 million in enhancing existing facilities to accommodate larger ships at Nigerian ports.
However, the Maersk group responded to these claims by indicating their inability to provide comments on any ongoing investment discussions. Despite reaffirming their dedication to Nigeria and their longstanding 35-year presence in the country, Maersk emphasized that they are committed to fostering local growth opportunities. Nevertheless, they refrained from confirming any specific investment negotiations.
In a statement provided to UK newspaper Lloyd’s List on Tuesday, Maersk stated, “We are not able to comment on any investment talks. Maersk has been present in Nigeria for 35 years and, as a global provider of logistics services, we remain committed to developing opportunities for growth for the people, the port sector, and local businesses.”
The Danish firm acknowledged the importance of maintaining ongoing dialogues with the Nigerian administration, reflecting their commitment to the country. However, they maintained their stance of not commenting on any specific investment discussions at this time.
In summary, Robert Maersk Uggla and the Maersk group have refuted claims of finalizing a $600 million investment deal with the Nigerian government, despite statements suggesting otherwise. While reaffirming their commitment to Nigeria and their longstanding presence in the country, Maersk emphasized their dedication to fostering local growth opportunities but refrained from confirming any specific investment negotiations.
