Posted Tue, May 7, 2024 11:03 AM

NESG holds Public Lecture & Founders' Forum, Unveils 30th Nigerian Economic Summit Logo

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), in partnership with the Lagos Business School (LBS), on Thursday, the 2nd of May, 2024, held a public lecture and Founder's forum with the theme "In the National Interest: Reflecting on the Past, Reimagining the Future.," to kickstart activities for the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#30).

Mr Niyi Yusuf, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the NESG, emphasised the pivotal role of the annual Nigerian Economic Summit in the NESG's advocacy efforts. He underscored that the upcoming NES#30 is a momentous occasion, a significant milestone in Nigeria's journey of progress and impact. He urged the audience to reflect on the role of this public-private dialogue platform in Nigeria's socio-economic landscape, making them feel the importance of their participation in this historic event.

Mr Yusuf further highlighted the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit as a testament to the enduring relevance of the NESG's founding vision. He stressed that it reaffirms the essentiality of public-private partnerships in addressing complex economic realities. Each summit, he noted, has crafted policies and strategies crucial for removing barriers to inclusive development and global competitiveness. He reiterated the potential of the audience to contribute to these partnerships, making them feel empowered in their ability to shape Nigeria's economic future.

In his special remarks, Dr Pascal Dozie, Chairman of NESG Advisory Board/Pioneer Chairman, NESG Board of Directors, who was represented by NESG Board Director, Mr Frank Aigbogun, said that 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 further noted that the 30th Nigerian Economic 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.

In his special address, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Executive Governor, Lagos State, stated that the theme of today, In the National Interest: Reflecting on the Past, Reimagining the Future, invites every Nigerian first to look backwards and then cast our gaze into the future, connecting what was left behind with what is to come. 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.

During the public lecture, Managing Partner, Compliance Professionals PLC, Mrs Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, stated that the gathering is 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 noted that 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, and inclusive summits, all aimed at shaping the socio-economic development of our nation. On his part, pioneer Board Member, NESG, Dr Imo Itsueli, while Speaking during the Founder's forum, 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.  

Mr Niyi Yusuf and His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu also unveiled the 30th Nigerian Economic Summit logo. The NES#30 logo is a unique brand identity that 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.