The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has thrown its full weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s vision of transforming Nigeria into a $1 trillion economy, stressing that it will continue to play a key role in driving policies, partnerships, and dialogue that can turn this ambitious goal into reality.

During a courtesy visit to The Nation newspaper headquarters in Lagos, Chairperson of the NESG’s Media and Communications Subcommittee for NES#31, Mojisola Saka, emphasized that while the group does not create policies, it actively fosters conversations and partnerships that influence major economic reforms.

“I may not have the figures, but $1 trillion is just the beginning of what’s possible,” she said. “NESG acts as a bridge between government, private sector, and development partners. That’s how we influence change.”

Saka recalled NESG’s past successes, noting how several national reforms—such as the GSM revolution, pension restructuring, and banking sector reforms—stemmed from ideas born during NESG summits. She also praised the vision of founding figures like Chief Ernest Shonekan, Chief Pascal Dozie, and Ahmed Joda.

The visit, which was part of NESG’s build-up to the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (NES#31) happening from October 6–8, 2024, at Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, focused on strengthening media partnerships to amplify the summit’s message.

What to Expect at NES#31

This year’s summit will explore five major themes:

Economy

Gender

Food security

Infrastructure

Investment

Saka revealed that a full day will be dedicated to sub-national engagement, bringing together state governors and global investors to discuss how to fund development at the grassroots level.

“State governments are closer to the people. They must stop relying solely on federal allocations,” she said.

NESG Seeks Stronger Media Partnership

Rather than simply buying ad space, Saka noted, NESG is seeking a long-term partnership with media houses like The Nation to help track policies, build awareness, and ensure government accountability.

Editor of The Nation, Adeniyi Adesina, welcomed the collaboration but posed a crucial question: “How exactly is NESG contributing to Tinubu’s economic plan?”

In response, Saka explained that NESG’s true power lies in the platforms it creates for reform through research, collaboration, and advocacy.

“We create the space for decisions to take shape. What happens at our summit can shape national policy tomorrow,” she explained.

Group Business Editor Simeon Ebulu also expressed willingness to work more closely with NESG, affirming The Nation’s commitment to national development.

Meanwhile, NESG’s Head of Strategic Communications, Ayanyinka Ayalowo, thanked The Nation for its consistent support, describing the relationship as one built on reliability and shared purpose.

NESG: Built on Values, Not Profit

Saka further clarified that NESG operates on strict ethics and volunteerism, with members contributing out of national passion rather than profit.

“We are not paid to do this. Everyone at NESG is driven by love for Nigeria,” she said.

She concluded by presenting a compendium of NESG’s policy contributions over the years, calling the media “critical partners in shaping Nigeria’s economic future.”

As NES#31 draws closer, the NESG remains committed to driving meaningful conversations, influencing real reforms, and supporting Nigeria’s journey to economic greatness.