Some prominent Nigerians from various fields called for a deeper reflection of the nation’s past, present and future with a determination to right the wrongs and diversify the economy for better results.
They made the call at a public lecture and founder’s forum with the theme “In the National Interest: Reflecting on the Past, Reimagining the Future,” jointly organised by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), the Lagos Business School to kick start activities for the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#30) slated for this year.
In his address, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stated that the theme of the event invites every Nigerian to look backwards and then cast a gaze into the future, connecting what was left behind with what is to come.
In his remarks, chairman of NESG advisory board, Dr Pascal Dozie, who was represented by NESG board director, Frank Aigbogun, said there is no aspect of reflection about Nigeria that has not been done before, noting that yesterday is gone with all its triumphs and tragedies and that the present generation can only learn from the past but not relive it.
He reiterated the need to reimagine Nigeria with wisdom, courage and sagacity while focusing on political, economic, educational and environmental reimagining.
He noted that everyone can see the tireless passion and the energy of the #NESG at play and that the passion and energy must never be underrated as it continues to quietly inspire reform improvement in a way that eases the implementation of policy decisions at all levels of government.
Managing partner, Compliance Professionals Plc, Mrs Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, stated that the gathering was not just a celebration but a reflection on three decades of transformative dialogue and economic reform facilitated by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG).
She said Nigeria has, over the years, set herself on the path of achieving accelerated economic development; even though monitoring and executing actions of people has been challenging, the commitment remains unwavering; as the NESG continues to drive reforms through rigorous research, economic and social programmes, all aimed at shaping the socio-economic development of our nation.
Chairman of the board of directors of NESG, Mr Niyi Yusuf emphasised the pivotal role of the annual Nigerian Economic Summit in the NESG’s advocacy efforts. He the upcoming summit is a significant milestone in Nigeria’s journey of progress and impact.
He said the 30th summit presents an opportunity to ask pertinent questions about how Nigeria can diversify her economy and reduce dependence on oil, foster a business-friendly environment devoid of the usual sloganeering and develop a much-truly needed infrastructural base in a more coordinated and lovely manner devoid of staccato approaches.
He urged the audience to reflect on the role of the public-private dialogue platform in Nigeria’s socio-economic landscape, making them feel the importance of their participation in the event.
Mr Yusuf said the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit is a testament to the enduring relevance of the NESG’s founding vision to address complex economic realities.
On his part, pioneer board member of NESG, Dr Imo Itsueli, stated that Nigeria has gone through a lot of difficulties culminating in various deficits which led to the formation of the NESG, which has transformed to become foremost platform for dialogue and transformational economic change.
The Lagos event also marked the unveiling of the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit logo. The NES#30 logo is a unique brand identity that the organizer said embodies the NESG’s dedication to advancing economic development in Nigeria.
“The logo design incorporates three stars above the name, symbolising three decades of impactful dialogue that have driven economic reforms and transformation. The Nigerian map within the globe signifies the NESG’s belief that significant change begins at home.
“In contrast, the trailing lines behind the map reflect NESG’s commitment to fostering global collaborations and partnerships. Additionally, the peach-coloured ribbon represents the joyful celebration of the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit anniversary,” NESG said.
