Gabon President issues ultimatums to accelerate infrastructure and corporate investment

Gabon President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema is implementing a governance strategy based on public pressure and strict deadlines to accelerate national infrastructure projects and corporate investments.

During recent inspections of construction sites in Libreville, the President issued ultimatums to contractors, emphasizing that since funds have already been disbursed by the Treasury, physical progress must match financial allocations. He has set specific deadlines, such as March 3, 2027, for certain road projects, to prevent the immobilization of public resources.

This approach extends to multinational corporations. The President has demanded that companies such as Airtel and Canal+ immediately begin constructing their corporate headquarters. He warned that failure to provide tangible proof of investment could result in the withdrawal of state-conceded land or even the departure of these groups from Gabon. Specifically, Airtel has faced criticism for operating in the country for 26 years without establishing a permanent headquarters despite significant local profits.