Full Breakdown
Aliko Dangote Calls for Urgent National Power Summit to Address Nigeria's Electricity Crisis
2/18/2026, 11:53:32 AM
Urgent Call for Action
At the national launch of the National Industrial Policy 2025 in Abuja, Aliko Dangote, a prominent Nigerian businessman and industrialist, urged the government to convene a national retreat focused on resolving Nigeria's ongoing power crisis. The event, attended by senior government officials, development partners, and business leaders, highlighted the critical role of electricity in fostering economic growth and job creation. Dangote emphasized, “Because without power, there is no way in any country you can create growth or create jobs. So, power means growth. No power, no growth.”
The Current Power Crisis
Dangote's call for action comes amid a backdrop of significant electricity supply disruptions, including a recent five-day blackout affecting various regions of Nigeria. This interruption was attributed to gas supply constraints following maintenance work by Seplat Energy, leading to nationwide generation shortfalls. Manufacturers have reported that such outages are symptomatic of a deeper structural issue, forcing many to rely on costly diesel generators, which further inflate production costs. Dangote noted the irony of the situation, stating, “I would have loved to sell more diesel, but that is not the right way. The right way is to make sure there is power.”
Broader Economic Implications
The implications of Nigeria's power crisis extend beyond immediate operational challenges. Dangote warned that heavy reliance on imports and insufficient protection for local industries threaten to undermine the country’s industrial ambitions. He stated, “If you give us zero-interest loans, free land and power, if there is no protection, there is no way any industry will thrive here.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns within Nigeria’s organized private sector regarding the impact of high interest rates and infrastructure deficits on domestic manufacturers.
The Role of the Private Sector
Dangote highlighted the significant influence of the private sector in Nigeria's economy, which accounts for nearly 90% of the gross domestic product. He called for enhanced collaboration between policymakers and business leaders to address the challenges facing local industries. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of fulfilling tax obligations, asserting that “the government is the major shareholder in every business,” and that tax revenues from industrial operations are vital for public finances.
Looking Ahead
Experts suggest that the success of the National Industrial Policy 2025 is contingent upon resolving the electricity bottleneck. Without reliable power, Nigeria's aspirations to enhance exports, reduce imports, and establish itself as a manufacturing hub in Africa may remain unattainable. Dangote expressed cautious optimism regarding recent economic reforms, indicating that reducing import dependence and bolstering local manufacturing could strengthen the naira and create jobs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Because without power, there is no way in any country you can create growth or create jobs. So, power means growth. No power, no growth.” — Aliko Dangote, Businessman
- “I would have loved to sell more diesel, but that is not the right way. The right way is to make sure there is power,” — Aliko Dangote, Businessman
- “If you give us zero-interest loans, free land and power, if there is no protection, there is no way any industry will thrive here.” — Aliko Dangote, Businessman
- “When we do our business, we must pay our taxes. It is a joint venture. The government is the major shareholder in every business,” — Aliko Dangote, Businessman
Conclusion
Aliko Dangote's call for an emergency power summit underscores the urgent need for Nigeria to address its electricity crisis to secure its economic future. The interplay between reliable power supply and industrial growth is critical as the nation seeks to reposition itself as a manufacturing leader in Africa.
