The esteemed human rights advocate and former senator, Shehu Sani, has stirred discussions with a thought-provoking statement on Nigeria’s economic partnership with oil-rich Saudi Arabia. Taking to his official account on X, Sani shared his views on Saudi Arabia’s promise to support Nigeria’s economic reform agenda. However, in a bold and somewhat unexpected appeal, he urged the Saudi government to consider a more immediate and tangible contribution: a second national grid.
Sani’s post resonated with a pointed critique, suggesting that while economic reforms are critical, Nigeria’s pressing need for reliable power infrastructure should take precedence. “They should just build a second National grid for us and leave the issue of the reforms for now,” he tweeted, hinting at Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with power shortages that have stymied growth and left millions without consistent electricity.
This comment has sparked widespread debate online, with many Nigerians echoing Sani’s sentiments. The call for an additional power grid reflects a growing frustration over the country’s energy crisis, which has been a persistent obstacle to economic advancement, industrial growth, and improved quality of life.
While Saudi Arabia’s pledge to support Nigeria’s economic reforms is welcomed, Sani’s appeal underscores the urgent infrastructural needs that would empower citizens, attract foreign investment, and facilitate sustainable economic development. As Nigeria seeks to stabilize its economy and reduce dependency on crude oil revenue, reliable power could indeed prove to be a foundational element that accelerates other reforms.
Sani’s post brings to light a crucial question: should foreign support focus on immediate infrastructural projects that address urgent needs, or on long-term economic policies that aim to reshape the nation’s economic landscape?
PIONEER NEWS 