Nigerians on social media have taken turns to commend president of the Dangote Industries Limited, Mr Aliko Dangote, following his “no power (electricity), no growth, no prosperity” comment.

Mr Dangote, in an explosive speech at the Manufacturers’ Association of Nigeria (MAN) Summit in Abuja, Tuesday, titled ‘Rethinking Manufacturing in Nigeria’, stated among other issues that “Import dependence is equivalent to importing poverty and exporting jobs; no power, no growth, no prosperity; similarly, no affordable financing, no growth, no prosperity and there is no industrialization without protection.”

In reactions to what many Nigerians considered a bold statement from a giant investor and stakeholders, an X user with the username Udufirstson stated that “the foundation of development is built on electricity; no nation can progress without power. However, Nigerians prioritize tribalism over confronting evil.”

Nwandu said: “Baba put your money where your mouth is. Lobby for favourable energy policies, and invest in power infrastructure.”

Mustapha Salaha, like Nwandu, advised “that is the more reason why we need you within the power sector. we’re inviting you to please come and explore the opportunities within the power industry for growth and prosperity.”

Adekanbi Riliwan inputted that “power is a major key to sustainable development and economic growth in any nation.”

Nura Tasiu described Mr Dangote’s statement in two words as “absolutely accurate.”

Donald encouraged more investors to speak up, stating that “Aliko how I wish you have been speaking up this way for a very long time. But it’s okay keep it up.”

Seyi Stevens declared that “If any govt in Nigeria can fix electricity to 100 per cent it has solved over 50 per cent of the economic problems, this is a clear fact.

“Nigerians are very hardworking people and ready to work in any system that has basic infrastructure.”