24th May, 2010
Contrary to the story published in many daily newspapers in Nigeria today and rest of the world that Nigeriaâ€
The report, which emanated from the media in England and America yesterday and widely publicised in Nigeria had it that Dangote was considering buying a 16 percent stake in the English Premier League Club, Arsenal.
Britainâ€
But Dangote denied all the reports in a statement, saying: “I am a longstanding supporter of Arsenal Football Club and have been involved in conversations around investment in the past.â€
The business mogul declared categorically that he has no intention of investing in the club and will not be acquiring a stake.
“I wish Arsenal Football Club the best for the future and will continue to follow the team as a fan,†Dangote said on a website today.
Before Dangoteâ€
“Football is not our kind of business,†said the director, adding that the Dangote Conglomerate has no plan to fritter away such money.
Joseph Okonma, a spokesamn for the Nigerian billionaire had in an interview with Bloomberg.com, an American website, said early today that Dangote is interested in investing in Arsenal.
It was further gathered that Bracewell-Smith has appointed U.S. private equity firm Blackstone Group (BX.N) to find a buyer.
A person familiar with the matter told Reuters earlier this month that 8-12 parties were taking a detailed look at the club.