Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has urged all stakeholders in the National Development to take ownership and fulfill their responsibilities, in their daily activities emphasizing that Nigeria’s greatness depends on collective effort and accountability.
Sanwo-Olu gave the admonishment on Wednesday at the 2024 Annual Directors Conference with the theme “Business Meets Government Dinner” held at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The Governor, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat noted that to achieve greatness for the country, Nigerians in their respective positions should do what is right and make sure that the corridor is clean, adding that Nigerians are the best and they are the best at what they do.
He emphasized that instead of complaining about others, citizens should focus on providing lasting solutions by taking initiative, solving problems, and being accountable for their actions within their sphere of influence.
According to him, “You just clean your environment, because if we all clean our environment, this country will be great. So, you solve your own problem, and leave the others to solve theirs. The bottom line is that if we look at what we do right, you will know that as Nigerians we are the best, we are just the best. How do we now harness that, and that is the challenge.”
The governor stressed that the major problem in the country is the family unit which requires attention, and if not solved, nothing will work as desired. He added that all these policies are good but every nation, and every community today is the function of family values, as the success of the country depends on how well the family units are, emphasizing that bounding and building the family unit of any nation can lead the country to greatness and prosperity.
“The question is how do we make ourselves accountable, how do we maintain our family unit and how do we maintain our lanes? If we do that I am sure this country will be great again. It is about us as a people and making sure that the corridor is clean. If we all clear our corridor this county will be great again.” The Governor said.
On the importance of infrastructure to National development and economic growth, Sanwo-Olu said, “The reality is that a lot of our infrastructure is better than other Africa countries’ infrastructure, so the problem is not enough infrastructure the problem is not policies inconsistency, the problem is how do we let ourselves accountable when you do something wrong.”
In his opening remarks, President and Chairman of the Governing Council, Chartered Institute of Directors (CIoD) Nigeria, Alhaji Tijjani M. Borodo, stated that the event becomes pivotal owing to the need for leaders in government and business to align their visions and actions to overcome business environment challenges such as policy inconsistencies, infrastructure deficits, and bureaucratic bottlenecks.
Alhaji Borodo emphasized that the journey through the road of economic recovery, growth, and development will not be a smooth ride without the partnership between the government and business leaders, adding that as business leaders, they are bringing forth innovation, agility, and capital necessary for growth while government, on the other hand, must create an enabling environment through policies that are clear, consistent, and supportive.
In his words, “This dinner provides the platform for candid conversations about the way forward. The challenges we face, be it in infrastructure, human capital development, or governance, require collective action. We cannot afford to operate in silos. As we engage with one another tonight, I encourage us to think about the long-term partnerships that can be forged. Creating a Nigeria where businesses thrive, and citizens enjoy a higher quality of life should be our shared vision.”
Speaking further, the president noted that neither the government nor business can singlehandedly drive the transformation that Nigeria requires, stressing that government and private sector must work together. The President noted that Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have been successful in other climes, and they must deepen their commitment to such collaborations.
He added that as an institute, the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria remains committed to facilitating dialogue between both sectors and advocating policies that promote good governance and economic growth.
“Your Excellencies, distinguished guests, our nation is pivotal in Africa’s economic journey. With emerging technologies, shifting global dynamics, and evolving market demands, the need for seamless cooperation between the private and public sectors has never been more urgent. The partnerships between government and private sectors play a decisive role in shaping our country’s future.
“The private sector, with its dynamism, innovation, and capacity for growth, must work in concert with government institutions to create an enabling environment for sustainable development. This is not just a goal; it is a necessity if we are to achieve our economic aspirations.” The president concluded.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the National Organising Committee at the Chartered Institute of Directors 2024 Annual Directors’ Conference Business Meet Government Dinner, Dr. Fatumata Coker who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru described the event as networking between business leaders and policymakers which is germane in ensuring the alignment of goals for a prosperous Nigeria.
He said, “Tonight presents a unique opportunity for direct engagement – a space where ideas, insights, and solutions can be exchanged. Our aim is simple: to reinforce the importance of collaboration and to chart a course forward that benefits all Nigerians. With public sector favourable policies and regulatory frameworks, and the private sector’s innovation and execution, we can create lasting value.”
While encouraging participants to seize the moment, to build bridges, and to lay the groundwork for partnerships that will yield tangible results for the growth and development of our nation, he further reminded them that the dinner is not the end of their discussions but rather the beginning of a renewed commitment to working together.
He added that the nation’s economic potential is vast, but unlocking it requires a united effort expressing confidence that through collaboration, mutual respect, and shared vision, they will overcome the challenges ahead and unlock a brighter future for Nigeria.
