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Renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist, Tony Elumelu, has emphasized the need for collective action to drive Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
Delivering the keynote address at the 17th Annual Banking and Finance Conference, Elumelu highlighted the critical areas that require attention to shape Nigeria’s economic future.
Elumelu stressed the importance of access to electricity, security, and youth entrepreneurship in driving economic growth. He emphasized that reliable access to electricity is fundamental to development, and that security is crucial for protecting citizens, attracting investment, and fostering trade.
He also highlighted the need to incentivize youth entrepreneurship, citing the choice between offering young people opportunities in Nigeria or forcing them to seek opportunities abroad.
Elumelu commended the Nigerian banking sector’s transformation over the years but noted that it faces challenges that impede its growth and innovation. He called for constructive dialogue among stakeholders to foster a collaborative environment.
Elumelu showcased his group’s impact through its business, philanthropic, and advocacy efforts, including the United Bank for Africa Group, Heirs Holdings Group, and the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
He concluded by emphasizing the need for collective action to drive economic growth, stating that “our legacy as a generation must be defined by our collective actions, not just our words or complaints.”
In comment earlier, Mr. Oliver Alawuba, GMD/CEO of UBA Plc and Chairman of the Body of Banks’ CEOs, and Chairman of the 17th Annual Banking and Finance Consultative Committee, expressed profound gratitude to the esteemed guests, including the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; the Vice President of Liberia, Jeremiah Kpan Koung, representing President Joseph Nyuma Boakai; and the Vice Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Daniel Mukoko Samba, representing President Felix Tshisekedi.
He also thanked the Honourable Ministers, Governors, Senators, and leadership of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, and Economic and Financial Crimes Commission for their presence and contributions.
Alawuba commended the Keynote Speaker, Mr. Tony Elumelu, for his inspiring words and roadmap for Nigeria’s economic transformation.
He appreciated the leadership of the CIBN, the Planning and Organizing Committee, and the Management and Staff of UBA Group for their dedication and efforts in making the conference a success.
In his closing remarks, Alawuba urged participants to transform the knowledge and insights shared during the conference into action, emphasizing the need for vision, collaboration, and innovation to drive progress and change the world.
The conference, hosted by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), brought together esteemed guests, including the Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, and other dignitaries.
