ABUJA — The Federal Government is pushing for a deeper strategic partnership with the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG) to accelerate investment inflows, job creation and sustainable economic growth, as it intensifies efforts to reposition Nigeria’s economic diplomacy.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, made the call during a high-level meeting with an NESG delegation led by Cecilia Akintomide, Vice-Chairperson of the Summit’s Conference Organising Committee.
He said stronger collaboration between government and private sector stakeholders remains critical to unlocking growth, strengthening policy execution and delivering measurable economic outcomes.
Enikanolaiye reaffirmed that Nigeria’s foreign policy is increasingly aligned with economic priorities, positioning diplomacy as a tool to attract foreign direct investment, boost productivity and improve citizens’ welfare under the current administration’s reform agenda.
“While recent reforms have strengthened macroeconomic stability, greater effort is required to translate growth into tangible improvements in the lives of Nigerians,” he said.
He emphasised the need for sustained policy dialogue, innovation, investment promotion and deeper public-private sector engagement to drive inclusive and sustainable development.
On energy transition, the minister stressed Nigeria’s commitment to a balanced pathway that advances renewable energy and climate finance while safeguarding its strategic interests as a major oil-producing economy.
The NESG delegation briefed the minister on preparations for the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit scheduled for October 25 to 27, 2026, themed “Growth that Works: Delivering Jobs, Productivity and Shared Prosperity.”
The group sought government support in mobilising international participation, advancing the Rising Together Initiative and collaborating on a proposed Africa Economic Summit aimed at strengthening regional economic integration.
Enikanolaiye pledged full support for the summit, including facilitating engagement with foreign leaders, diplomats and global partners, while backing moves to institutionalise cooperation between both sides.
Discussions also highlighted the need for closer coordination among key government agencies, including the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission and the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, to drive a unified investment and trade strategy.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration to support Nigeria’s economic transformation, expand investment opportunities and deliver sustainable growth..
