The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu (CON) has noted the pivotal role of the private sector in advancing the nation’s economic agenda, stressing the importance of collaborative efforts between government and industry stakeholders in driving innovation and prosperity.
The Minister noted this recently in Abuja, while receiving, a delegation from the Corporate Council on Africa (CCA) Trade mission to Nigeria.
“As we embark on our journey towards economic transformation, your insights and contributions are invaluable,”. “The Corporate Council on Africa has been a steadfast partner in Nigeria’s development journey and we are grateful for your continued engagement.”
Highlighting Nigeria’s robust economic fundamentals, Bagudu underscored the country’s vast potential as an investment destination. “With a population exceeding 200 million, a thriving democracy and a dynamic market economy, Nigeria offers unparalleled opportunities for growth and expansion”
According to him, “Through strategic partnerships and targeted investments, The Federal Government aims to unleash the full potentials of the nation’s economy and thus create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.”
Bagudu outlined key initiatives aimed at stimulating economic growth and attracting foreign investment, which include efforts to de-risk credit, promote infrastructure development and enhance better access to finance for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
He expressed confidence that through concerted efforts and strategic partnerships, Nigeria would emerge as a beacon of opportunity and prosperity in the global arena.
In his speech, the Chairman of CCA and CEO of Axxess Technology Solutions, John Olajide, reiterated his commitment to Nigeria’s economic development, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration in driving progress.
Highlighting specific initiatives, Olajide shared insights into Axxess Technology Solutions’ contributions to Nigeria’s economy. “We are the largest employer of software engineers in Nigeria,” Our engineers’ innovative solutions have garnered international recognition, showcasing Nigeria’s potential in the tech industry, he disclosed.
He also discussed Axxess’ involvement in agricultural development and healthcare technology, emphasizing the company’s commitment to addressing critical needs in the country.
Also speaking, President and CEO of CCA, Florie Liser FG Advocates for stronger ties with EU
The Federal Government of Nigeria has advocated for stronger ties with the European Union to tackle developmental issues bedeviling the country.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Atiku Bagudu made this advocacy during a courtesy visit on him by members of the European Union Council Working Group on Africa.
Sen. Bagudu appreciated the growing relationship between the European Union and Nigeria while stating that a number of bilateral agreements such as the SAMOA agreement had been signed between both countries.
He called for more collaboration in the areas of propagating democratic principles, climate change, migration and infrastructural deficits in the country, while expressing hope that Nigeria will remain a market oriented country with double digit growth.
The Minister assured the delegation that the Federal Government had taken a number of measures to tackle the inflation in the country by reducing monetary supply, introducing more inflow of foreign exchange, boosting of domestic production of agricultural products and manufacturing among others measures
While speaking, the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Samuella Isopi, affirmed the EU’s readiness to deepen collaboration and contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth. She lauded the positive outcomes of previous economic collaborations and expressed eagerness to advance initiatives like the Sustainable Investment Activation Agreement. She reiterated EU’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment for increased investment in Nigeria.
The Chairman of the Africa Working Party of the Council of the European Union, Miss. Yamina Gerfi, noted that the aim of the visit was to deepen understanding and cooperation with Nigeria and the region. She therefore highlighted the importance of engaging with diverse stakeholders to boost EU-Nigeria collaboration for the benefit of both parties.
A pamphlet of the year 2023 mapping of 230 European companies in Nigeria with interest in oil and gas, manufacturing research and innovation were chronicled in the pamphlet that was presented to the Honourable Minister.
Julie Osagie-Jacobs
Director Information (BEP)
29th February 2024