Nigeria’s Development Trajectory Under Spotlight at NESG’s Inaugural Dialogue Series

The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has kicked off its groundbreaking National Dialogue Series, aptly themed “The Nigerian Hamilton Project: A National Dialogue Series on Development as Attitude.” Held at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, this inaugural event brought together esteemed thought leaders, academics, public officials, and private sector stakeholders to engage in meaningful discussions on Nigeria’s development path.

Enugu State Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Emeka Urama, emphasized the crucial link between social cohesion and sustainable economic development. “When citizens feel excluded or marginalized, it breeds discontent and resistance to development efforts,” he warned, highlighting the need for inclusive leadership that prioritizes unity, security, infrastructure, and human capital development.

Other speakers echoed similar sentiments. Director of the Institute of Development Studies, Dr. Ben Nwosu, criticized the disconnect between leadership rhetoric and action, stressing that true commitment is shown in tangible investments in education, healthcare, and improving lives.

Private sector leader Chief Loretta Aniagolu urged policymakers to focus on people-centered outcomes, particularly in agriculture and housing, which she believes can drive job creation and improve livelihoods. “At the heart of development is the people—measured by the jobs we create and the lives we improve,” she emphasized.

Dr. Chukwuma Agu pointed to a flawed leadership philosophy as Nigeria’s fundamental development challenge, warning against overreliance on natural resources and advocating for inclusive economic models that prioritize agriculture and manufacturing.

The dialogue series aims to reframe development as a mindset issue, rather than just policy outputs. The next edition is scheduled for Lagos, where discussions will continue on building a leadership culture that prioritizes inclusive, people-driven development.