Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote has agreed to appear on the YouTube interview programme Curiosity Made Me Ask, hosted by comedian Adebayo "Isbae U" Abidemi. According to Premium Times, the acceptance followed an exchange during a visit to the Dangote Refinery in Lagos on Monday, which coincided with an event tagged "Vision 2030". A video of the interaction circulated widely on Tuesday, capturing the comedian's request for the billionaire to join his show.
Isbae U argued that many of Dangote's previous interviews had taken place on platforms that rarely attract young Nigerians, despite their interest in the company's initial public offering. As reported by AllAfrica, the comedian urged Dangote to use his platform to reach a wider audience, noting that younger viewers were keen to invest in his business. He described the show as a raw, unfiltered space that has previously featured prominent figures such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo and veteran actors Richard Mofe-Damijo and Pete Edochie.
In response, Dangote acknowledged the importance of engaging with younger generations. Punch reported that the businessman stated, "So really, you are right," agreeing that this demographic is the audience he should face going forward. He expressed concern that many young Nigerians were unfamiliar with the country's political history, citing former President Obasanjo as an example of a leader whose profile was boosted by a later return to power. Isbae U interjected to note that he had previously given Obasanjo a platform on his own show.
Dangote also discussed his personal approach to simplicity and public engagement. According to Premium Times, he shared an anecdote about the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, who reportedly drove himself to a fertiliser plant launch, to illustrate his belief in maintaining humility. He added that he enjoys taking photographs with members of the public, a habit influenced by a childhood experience in Washington where he and his grandfather met prominent figures. He dismissed suggestions that his social media posts were merely a request for blessings, stating that he was simply acknowledging how over-blessed he felt.
The invitation highlights a shift in how Nigerian business leaders are engaging with digital media. By accepting the spot on a satirical YouTube show, Dangote is positioning himself to communicate directly with the demographic most interested in his company's future investments. The appearance is expected to provide a more informal setting for discussing his journey and the company's strategic direction.