NES #31 Agenda

09:30 - 09:45

Opening Statement

Olaniyi Yusuf

Chairman, Nigerian Economic Summit Group 

09:45 - 10:00

Address of the Minister on the State of the Economy and National Development Plan

H.E Abubakar Atiku Bagudu CON

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning

Speakers

H.E. Sen Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, CON

Panelist

Mr Olaniyi Yusuf

Panelist

Strategic Framework for Nigeria’s US$1 Trillion Economy

Omoboyede Olusanya

Vice Chairman, Nigerian Economic Summit Group 

Speakers

Omoboyede Olusanya

Presenter

Africa’s growing role in global trade presents a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria. However, without streamlined trade facilitation, robust policy implementation, and harmonised standards, Nigeria risks being left behind. Strategic bilateral and multilateral engagements must align with national interests to unlock export competitiveness and secure Nigeria’s place in global value chains. 

Speakers

Omoboyede Olusanya

Presenter

Mathew Verghis

Panelist

Dr. Jumoke Oduwole MFR

Panelist

H.E. Gautier Mignot

Panelist

Nancy Illoh-Nnaji

Moderator

His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu

President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria

Launch

National Food Systems Vulnerability Index

Inauguration

HCD 2.0 Private Sector Partnership Group

12:00 - 12:10

Presidential Tour of Exhibition Booths

Speakers

H.E Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

Panelist

From Hustle to Decent Work: Unlocking Jobs and Productivity for Economic Transformation

Unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential requires a strategic shift from precarious, informal "hustle" to productive, decent work. This transition is not merely about formalising the informal sector; it is about reorganising informal work, enhancing labour productivity and ensuring fair wages. By fostering an environment where businesses thrive and workers are empowered, Nigeria can transform its workforce into a powerful engine for sustainable and inclusive growth.

Speakers

Dr. Wilson Erumebor

Lecture

Nabila Aguele

Panelist

Dr. Olusegun Omisakin

Panelist

Daniel Ikuenobe

Panelist

Emmanuel Okeleji

Panelist

Eniola Mafe-Abaga

Moderator

Nigeria’s economic transformation hinges on unlocking the potential of its diverse subnational markets. Enhancing state-level competitiveness, improving ease of doing business, and investing in infrastructure along key economic corridors will attract investment, foster regional productivity, and drive inclusive growth. A unified national vision must empower differentiated local economic strengths.

Speakers

H.E. Sen Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, CON

Panelist

Dr. Jumoke Oduwole MFR

Panelist

H.E. Abdullahi A. Sule

Panelist

Tobi Adeniyi

Panelist

Amaka Anku

Moderator

Nigeria’s economic transformation hinges on aligning education with its industrial ambitions. A skills-driven growth model demands curriculum reform, expanded funding, and equitable access—particularly in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET). Strengthening industry-academia collaboration is critical to producing a workforce equipped for innovation, productivity, and long-term national competitiveness.

Speakers

Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa

Panelist

Modupe Adefeso-Olateju

Moderator

Bright Jaja

Panelist

Markus Wagner

Panelist

Sandra Aguebor

Panelist

Molade Adeniyi

Moderator

A resilient, productive workforce depends on equitable access to quality healthcare, proper nutrition, and strong public health systems. Strengthening primary health care and accelerating Universal Health Coverage (UHC) are essential to reduce preventable illnesses. Investing in food security and health determinants enhances national productivity, economic stability, and long-term human capital development.

Speakers

Iziaq Adekunle Salako

Panelist

Brian Deaver

Panelist

Tinuola Akinbolagbe

Panelist

Dr. Kelechi Ohiri

Panelist

Olumide Okunola

Moderator

Khalilu Muhammad

Panelist

Uninterrupted power is essential for industrialisation. Nigeria’s abundant gas reserves must drive a robust gas-to-power strategy within a clear operational framework. Unlocking private sector funding, backed by credible government guarantees, is critical. Without reliable power, industrial growth remains elusive; urgent reform is needed to align energy delivery with economic ambition.

Speakers

Philip Mshelbila

Panelist

Chief Adebayo A. Adelabu, FCA,FCIB,OFR

Panelist

Rahila Thomas

Moderator

Musiliu O. Oseni, PhD

Panelist

Joy Ogaji

Panelist

Benson Uwheru

Panelist

Segun Adaju

Panelist

Nebolisa Anako

Panelist

The business case for women on Nigerian boards is compelling. Gender diversity in leadership correlates with improved financial performance, better risk management, and enhanced innovation. Including women's perspectives leads to more robust decision-making and a stronger market reputation, ultimately boosting long-term corporate value and sustainability in Nigeria's competitive landscape.

Speakers

Ms. Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim

Panelist

Omowunmi Akingbohungbe

Moderator

Ndidi Nnoli-Edozien

Panelist

Danladi Verheijen

Panelist

Nkiru Balonwu

Panelist

In an era of economic volatility, future-proofing investments demands rebuilding investor confidence through transparent policies and regulatory consistency. Stabilising exchange, inflation, and interest rates is critical. Nigeria must create a predictable, investment-friendly environment where risks are managed, returns are protected, and investors can commit long-term capital to drive sustainable growth.

Speakers

Ms. Aisha Rimi

Panelist

Efe Omoduemuke

Panelist

Oluseye Olusoga

Panelist

Iftin Fatah

Panelist

Oyebode Oyetunde

Panelist

Nkiru Chime

Moderator

Rebuilding trust between government and citizens demands transparent, data-driven governance, responsive institutions, and accountable leadership. Without institutional capacity and participatory policymaking, public distrust will persist. Strengthening feedback loops and ensuring citizens see results from policies are critical to restoring legitimacy, deepening democratic engagement, and driving inclusive national development.

Speakers

Tola Adeyemi

Panelist

Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila

Panelist

Yemi Adamolekun

Panelist

Jude (M.I.) Abaga

Panelist

Frank Aigbogun

Moderator

Hadiza Bala Usman

Panelist

Aisha Yesufu

Panelist

Nigeria's future hinges on its youth. With innovation and resilience, young Nigerians are not just demanding change but driving it, forging new paths in technology, art, and entrepreneurship. Empowering them with quality education and opportunities isn't a choice; it's the only sustainable strategy for a prosperous and stable nation. Their energy is the engine of reform.
 

Keynote Address 

Ayodele Olawande; Minister of Youth Development

Presentation

“Bridging the Gap: Youth Skills, Innovation, and the Future of Work in Nigeria”

Speakers

Comrade Ayodele Olawande

Panelist

Titilope Gbadamosi

Panelist

Niyi Fagbemi

Panelist

Olayinka Iyinolakan

Panelist

Charles Asiegbu

Presenter

Hasana Bello Aliyu

Panelist

Severe climate vulnerability is impacting agriculture, water, and energy, with economic losses exceeding $100 billion since 2020. Despite rising climate finance, inflows of $2.5 billion in 2022 are well below the required $17.7 billion annually. This funding gap hinders adaptation efforts, threatening to shrink GDP by 11% by 2050.

Speakers

H.E. Sen Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, CON

Panelist

Mr. Wale Edun

Panelist

Richard Montgomery

Panelist

Cynthia Rowe

Panelist

Tenioye Majekodunmi

Speech

Ifeanyi Peters Ugwuoke

Moderator

Olapeju Ibekwe

Panelist

Smart growth demands bold private-sector leadership to harness digital transformation as a growth accelerator. By investing in infrastructure, innovation, and talent, businesses can drive productivity and scale. A coordinated push for digital adoption across value chains will unlock competitiveness, attract investment, and position Nigeria for the next frontier of economic leadership

Speakers

Nkemdilim Uwaje Begho

Moderator

Nneka Enwereji

Panelist

Iyinoluwa Aboyeji

Panelist

Bosun Tijani

Panelist

Mohamad Darwish

Speech

Fernando Barros

Panelist

This session provides a crucial platform to interrogate Nigeria's macroeconomic policies and fiscal coordination. Amid mounting concerns about inflation, debt, and investment, clear communication from government fiscal authorities is essential to restore market confidence, steer reforms, and chart a credible economic recovery.

Speakers

Mr. Wale Edun

Panelist

Mathew Verghis

Panelist

Nancy Illoh-Nnaji

Moderator

Armstrong Takang

Panelist

Barbara Barungi

Moderator

Patience Oniha

Panelist

Africa’s future depends on urgently addressing its foundational learning crisis, which undermines growth, inclusion, and governance. As public resources tighten, philanthropy and the private sector must step up. This session will launch the African Philanthropy Coalition for Foundational Learning, fostering collaboration, investment, and African-led solutions to transform education outcomes.

Speakers

Mr. Ziauddin Yousafzai

Panelist

Obiageli Ezekwesili

Panelist

Modupe Adefeso-Olateju

Moderator

James Mwangi

Panelist

Zouera Youssoufou

Speech

Mosun Layode

Panelist

Hon. Conrad Sackey

Panelist

Sustained economic prosperity in Nigeria demands a National Productivity Growth Agenda. Low productivity stifles industrialization and job creation, trapping the nation in a cycle of underdevelopment. By strategically boosting efficiency across all sectors, from agriculture to technology, Nigeria can unlock its true potential, drive competitive growth, and improve living standards for all citizens.

Speakers

Omoboyede Olusanya

Presenter

Dr. Wilson Erumebor

Lecture

Wole Ogundare

Panelist

Samer Matta

Panelist

Baffa Babba Dan Agundi

Panelist

x

Addressing the urban housing deficit requires a paradigm shift from government-led initiatives to innovative financing models. Sustainable solutions lie in leveraging pension funds, promoting public-private partnerships that incorporate cross-subsidy models, and expanding access to long-term, single-digit interest mortgage loans. This approach would mobilize private capital and make homeownership a reality for low- and middle-income earners.

Speakers

Wole Adeniyi

Panelist

Nike Bajomo

Panelist

Olu Delano

Panelist

Bridget Oyefeso-Odusami

Panelist

Tola Akinhanmi

Panelist

Hauwa Bello

Panelist

Chidi Okezie

Panelist

Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju

Panelist

Expanding access to finance for Middle Markets and Emerging Corporates is essential for national economic transformation. These segments, often overlooked by large lenders, are the primary engines for job creation and diversification. Strategic policy intervention is urgently needed to de-risk lending and unlock specialized capital, converting these high-growth businesses into foundational pillars of a robust economy.

Speakers

Olusegun Alebiosu

Panelist

Aishatu Bubaram

Panelist

  Yinka Ijabiyi

Moderator

 Mobolade Ojeahere

Panelist

 Andy Wang

Panelist

Agriculture, Nigeria’s economic backbone, presents a compelling opportunity for long-term investors. Despite employing over one-third of the population, its full potential is constrained by gaps in financing and infrastructure. It is no longer just about food security, but a lucrative investment frontier that can drive industrialization, job creation, and inclusive prosperity.

Speakers

Abubakar Suleiman

Panelist

Dimieari Von Kemedi

Panelist

Kayode Olalere

Moderator

Olapeju Ibekwe

Panelist

Olusola Obikanye

Panelist

Achieving Nigeria's economic growth requires bridging the stark divide between its burgeoning digital ecosystem and its real economy. The current urban-centric focus of digital infrastructure and innovation has left vital sectors like agriculture and manufacturing disconnected. By strategically deploying digital solutions and fostering a robust talent pipeline, Nigeria can unlock its true potential and drive inclusive, sustainable prosperity.

Speakers

Kari Tukur

Moderator

Joyce Daniels

Moderator

Africa’s path to industrialisation requires a coherent, inclusive, and adaptive strategy underpinned by strong institutional capacity. Clear incentives for productivity and penalties for inefficiency must be embedded to ensure policy credibility. Without alignment across sectors and consistency in implementation, industrial growth will remain fragmented, unsustainable, and vulnerable to policy reversals.

Speakers

Francis Meshioye

Panelist

Sen. John Eno

Panelist

Amb. Philbert Johnson

Panelist

Oyeyimika Adeboye

Panelist

Stella Okoli OON

Panelist

Speakers

Despite recent fiscal and monetary reforms, Nigeria's macroeconomic stability ultimately depends on strong, effective institutions. A comprehensive institutional reset is urgently needed to re-establish the rule of law, improve regulatory coherence, and ensure judicial independence, particularly in economic matters.

Speakers

Mr John Uwajumogwu

Panelist

Kyari Bukar

Speech

Sen. George Akume, CON

Speech

Ozofu Ogiemudia

Panelist

Armstrong Takang

Panelist

George Etomi

Speech

Sanyade Okoli

Panelist

Nkemdirim Agboti

Moderator

Chukwuemeka Azinge

Moderator

 Nasiru Isyaku

Panelist

Paul Idornigie

Panelist

Nigeria’s agriculture sector holds immense potential for economic transformation. Unlocking this requires robust value chain development, improved investment readiness, and streamlined regulations backed by capable institutions. Prioritising productivity, infrastructure, and agribusiness incentives will drive inclusive growth, ensure food security, and position agriculture as a key pillar of Nigeria’s future economy.

Speakers

Audu Grema

Panelist

Samirah Bello

Panelist

 Habiba Suleiman

Moderator

  Oliver Kiptoo Kirui

Panelist

Revitalising Nigeria’s manufacturing sector requires strategic investment across the value chain, from raw material sourcing to distribution. Enhancing investor readiness and building confidence through targeted incentives, streamlined regulation, and stronger institutional capacity is imperative. A robust manufacturing base will reduce import dependence, boost exports, create jobs, and drive sustainable

Speakers

Dr. Henry Agbonika

Panelist

Nelson Okwonna

Panelist

Segun Ajayi-Kadir mni

Panelist

Sen. John Eno

Panelist

Amanda Lumun-Feese

Moderator

To secure Nigeria’s energy future, the oil & gas sector must shift from extractive dependence to full value chain development. Attracting investment demands clarity, incentives, and robust infrastructure. Strengthening regulatory environments and institutional capacity is essential to improve investor confidence, maximise local content, and drive long-term economic and industrial growth.

Speakers

Philip Mshelbila

Panelist

Tengi George-Ikoli

Panelist

  Sen Heineken Lokpobiri, Ph.D

Panelist

Umole Franklin

Panelist

Kelvin Emmanuel

Moderator

Alex Irune Ainojie

Panelist

The digital economy offers Nigeria a unique leapfrogging opportunity. However, unlocking its full potential requires robust value chain development, targeted investment incentives, and regulatory clarity. Strengthening institutional capacity and ensuring policy coherence will not only attract global tech investors but also catalyse innovation, job creation, and inclusive digital transformation across sectors.

Speakers

Weyinmi Eribo

Panelist

Naomi Lucas

Panelist

Olatunde Olajide

Panelist

Olubunmi Okunowo

Moderator

The creative economy holds immense potential for inclusive growth, job creation, and global competitiveness. To unlock this, Nigeria must invest in end-to-end value chain development, enhance investor readiness, and strengthen regulatory and institutional capacity. A strategic, well-governed ecosystem can transform creativity into sustainable economic value and international cultural influence.

Speakers

Ms. Hannatu Musa Musawa

Panelist

Udeme Ufot, MFR

Panelist

Omoyemi Akerele

Panelist

Audu Maikori

Panelist

Chike Madugbuena

Panelist

Obi Asika

Panelist

Ikenna Nwosu

Moderator

This session will analyze Nigeria's new tax and fiscal reforms. We'll explore the implications for businesses, focusing on how these policies impact investment decisions, operating costs, and overall profitability. The discussion will provide insights on navigating the new landscape and adapting for sustainable growth.

Speakers

Mrs Lydia Jafiya, mni

Panelist

Taiwo Oyedele

Lecture

LUNCH BREAK

Speakers

This is an exclusive, high-level gathering that brings together leading CEOs and top executives. This private session provides a unique opportunity for networking, strategic dialogue, and collaboration on key economic issues, fostering a shared vision for Nigeria's development agenda.

Speakers

Mr Yemi Cardoso

Panelist

Accelerating industrialisation hinges on access to cheap and patient capital. The private sector must lead in lowering financing costs, supporting SMEs, and unlocking tailored instruments for women-led enterprises. Sustainable growth demands innovative approaches to interest rate management and inclusive capital allocation that align with long-term industrial development goals.

Speakers

Bayo Ajayi

Speech

Yemi Keri

Panelist

  Jubril Enakele

Panelist

Kemi Awodein

Moderator

Olasupo Olusi

Panelist

Unlocking Nigeria’s infrastructure potential demands private sector-led financing, especially for implementing the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP). Sustainable infrastructure growth hinges on innovative financing models, including PPPs, and incentivising subnational investments. Private capital must lead, supported by clear frameworks that de-risk investments and ensure long-term returns across national and subnational levels.

Speakers

Dimeji Salaudeen

Moderator

Frederick Klinke

Panelist

 Jobson Ewalefoh

Panelist

Rachel Moré-Oshodi

Panelist

Abdul B. Kamara

Moderator

Driving gender-inclusive growth demands dismantling systemic barriers limiting women’s participation in industrial value chains. From agro-processing to manufacturing, women face restricted access to land, finance, and skills. The private sector must lead with intentional strategies - mainstreaming women into industrial ecosystems unlocks untapped productivity, boosts competitiveness, and fosters equitable economic transformation.

Speakers

Ibukun Awosika

Panelist

Sybil Chidiac

Moderator

  Huddaya Fadoul Abacha

Panelist

  Leonard Wantchekon

Panelist

Layo Bakare Okeowo

Panelist

Lilian Kidane

Panelist

Audrey Joe-Ezigbo

Panelist

Commitment Session

Safeguarding Nigeria’s future begins with protecting its children. Prioritising universal birth registration ensures identity and access to rights, while full implementation of the Child Rights Act guarantees safety, education, and healthcare. Without urgent, coordinated action, millions of Nigerian children risk exclusion, abuse, and lost potential - undermining national development goals.

Speakers

Abubakar Suleiman

Panelist

Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad

Panelist

Ms. Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim

Panelist

Mr. Ziauddin Yousafzai

Panelist

Obiageli Ezekwesili

Panelist

Kitty van der Heijden

Panelist

Nancy Illoh-Nnaji

Moderator

Alem Hadera Abay

Panelist

Wafaa Elfadil Saeed Abdelatef

Panelist

Moving from a resource-based to a knowledge-based economy involves shifting the primary driver of economic growth from the exploitation of natural resources to the creation, application, and dissemination of knowledge. This transition requires developing a skilled workforce, fostering innovation, and establishing robust infrastructure to support knowledge-intensive activities.

Speakers

Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa

Panelist

Professor Dame Ijeoma Uchegbu

Panelist

Etemore Glover

Moderator

Umar Bindir

Panelist

Kenny Uzoma Acholonu;

Panelist

Nigeria's industrial ambitions are threatened by a mounting plastic crisis. The urgent case for PET plastic recycling is not merely environmental, but economic: a formalized circular economy can generate thousands of new manufacturing jobs, create local feedstock for industries, and reduce forex pressure, transforming waste from a logistical nightmare into a vital, sustainable resource for industrial growth.

Speakers

Sen. John Enoh

Panelist

Lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty demands more than intent - it requires integrated, shock-responsive systems. Effective social protection and safety nets must evolve beyond palliatives to foster sustainable economic inclusion. A unified poverty exit strategy must break structural barriers and institutionalise long-term support for vulnerable populations to achieve real transformation.

Speakers

HRH Muhammad Sanusi II

Panelist

Yusuf Tanko Sununu

Panelist

Abi Jagun

Panelist

Unlocking a $1 trillion Nigerian economy hinges on strategic sustainable financing. Rather than relying on traditional debt, attracting catalytic capital through innovative instruments like green bonds and public-private partnerships is essential. This approach will de-risk critical sectors, mobilise private investment, and ensure that economic growth is both inclusive and environmentally responsible.

Speakers

Bayo Ajayi

Speech

Adaobi Onanuga

Moderator

Patience Oniha

Panelist

Rotimi Akinde

Panelist

Nana Skari Maidugu

Panelist

Yewande Adewusi

Panelist

Now more than ever, investing in innovative food systems in Nigeria is crucial. Traditional methods are no longer sufficient to combat food insecurity and poverty. By leveraging new technologies, climate-smart agriculture, and improved value chains, the region can boost productivity, create jobs, and ensure long-term food security, transforming its agricultural landscape into an engine of growth.

Speakers

Omoboyede Olusanya

Presenter

HRH Muhammad Sanusi II

Panelist

Mathew Verghis

Panelist

Abubakar Kyari

Panelist

David Stevenson

Panelist

Yusuf Tanko Sununu

Panelist

Anil Nair

Panelist

Abdul B. Kamara

Moderator

  Oliver Kiptoo Kirui

Panelist

Investing in human capital is not just a public-sector responsibility; it's a private-sector imperative. Mobilising private investment in health, education, and labor is essential to create a skilled and healthy workforce, boost productivity, and drive sustainable economic growth. This collaboration is the most effective way to secure Nigeria's future and build a prosperous, inclusive society.

Speakers

Zouera Youssoufou

Speech

Toyin Adegbite-Moore

Moderator

Ibukun Awosika

Panelist

H.E. Abdullahi A. Sule

Panelist

Raymond Gilpin

Panelist

Tina George

Moderator

Gafar Alawode

Panelist

Ekenem Isichei

Panelist

Community Event

The NESG Membership Conference at the NES#31 is a dedicated event designed to foster a deeper sense of community and ownership among members of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group. It serves as a crucial platform to encourage active participation and align members with the NESG's mission of driving impactful socio-economic reforms.

Speakers

Dr. Tayo Aduloju

Speech

Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa

Panelist

Ozofu Ogiemudia

Panelist

Ogechi Obiorah

Moderator

Opening Remarks 

Speakers

Mr Olaniyi Yusuf

Panelist

Amb. Yusuf Maitama Tuggar

Panelist

Presentation

NESG Macroeconomic Condition Index

NESG Debt Burden Index

Speakers

Dr. Olusegun Omisakin

Panelist

While a unified continent presents massive potential, pan-African expansion is fraught with barriers. To succeed, businesses must navigate diverse regulatory and political environments, overcoming challenges like currency fluctuations and logistical bottlenecks. Strategic investments in technology and strong regional partnerships are crucial gateways to unlock this growth and build truly continental champions.

Speakers

Ade Adefeko

Panelist

Charlotte Obidairo

Moderator

 Ken Ife

Moderator

Azzam Alameddin

Panelist

Africa’s prosperity depends on shared ambition and regional solidarity. The Rising Together Initiative at NES #31 will spotlight the private sector’s catalytic role in unlocking cross-border growth. By deepening trade, trust, and collaboration across sectors and language divides, Nigeria can anchor a new continental growth model that is inclusive, resilient, and African-led.

Speakers

Girish Sharma

Panelist

Olugbenga Agboola

Panelist

Cecilia Akintomide

Moderator

  Ernest Ndukwe

Panelist

Nigeria’s path to industrialisation can be accelerated by emulating the successful strategies of MIKTA nations. By adopting their focus on diversification, strategic investment in technology and human capital, and export-oriented manufacturing, Nigeria can move beyond its resource-dependent economy. This approach will not only create jobs but also build globally competitive industries.

Speakers

Leah Katung-Babatunde

Panelist

H.E. Alfredo Miranda Ortiz

Panelist

Mr. Tak Namgung

Panelist

H.E. Ms Leilani Bin-Juda PSM

Panelist

Ms. Elif Durdu

Panelist

Mohammed Hayatu-Deen; Chairman, NESG Advisory Board

Speakers

Mohammed Hayatu-Deen

Panelist

Closing Remarks by Mr. Wale Edun, Coordinating Minister of the Economy

Speakers

Mr. Wale Edun

Panelist

Permanent Secretary, Budget and Economic Planning

Speakers

Dr Sampson Ebimaro

Speech

Speakers