Aliko Dangote warns that without reliable power and local manufacturing, Nigeria’s push for true economic independence may remain out of reach. Delivering this message in Lagos on Friday, Dangote made a compelling case for technical sovereignty shortly after being inducted as a Distinguished Honorary Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering.
He stressed that no nation can achieve lasting economic freedom while depending heavily on imported goods and foreign technologies. For Nigeria, he argued, the path to resilience lies in building the capacity to design, fabricate, and maintain its own industrial systems. According to Dangote, technical sovereignty is not just a strategic ambition but a necessity for national growth, job creation, and long-term stability.
Dangote’s remarks come at a critical time when Nigeria continues to battle economic headwinds, including currency volatility and infrastructure deficits. Despite its vast population and entrepreneurial energy, the country remains largely import-dependent—a situation he believes undermines its potential as Africa’s leading economy.
Drawing on his experience leading one of the continent’s largest industrial enterprises, Dangote said Nigeria already has the market size and human capital required to become a manufacturing hub. However, he identified unreliable electricity as the single most significant barrier to industrial expansion. Without steady and affordable power, he noted, local producers struggle to compete globally.
“This power is important; we must build it,” Dangote said emphatically. “I keep repeating, we must build it.” His insistence reflects the urgency he places on addressing Nigeria’s energy challenges. Erratic electricity supply not only increases production costs but also discourages investment in local industries.
He called for immediate and large-scale investment in power infrastructure, urging both government and private sector stakeholders to work collaboratively. Beyond increasing generation capacity, Dangote emphasized the importance of developing efficient and modern grids capable of supporting industrial-scale operations and innovation.
Beyond energy, Dangote highlighted the broader benefits of technical sovereignty. By producing goods locally—from everyday consumer items to advanced machinery—Nigeria can reduce its reliance on imports, stabilize its currency, and generate employment opportunities for millions. More importantly, it can strengthen its position in regional and global markets.
Addressing engineers and industry leaders during the event, Dangote encouraged greater collaboration between policymakers, innovators, and investors. He urged the engineering community to play a central role in shaping a future where Nigeria transitions from a consumer of foreign technology to a producer of homegrown solutions.
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