As institute warns that ignorance will land council bosses in trouble

President Bola Tinubu has restated his commitment to addressing economic and security challenges in the country.

The President spoke, yesterday, at the Nigerian Institute of Management’s 2024 Annual National Management Conference, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He emphasised that the security of lives and property remained essential for the nation’s development.

Represented by the Head of Federal Civil Service, Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Tinubu acknowledged that Nigeria was faced with numerous security threats, such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes, which, he said, had not only endangered physical safety but also hindered economic growth and foreign investment.

He also acknowledged the challenges of inflation, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure, but said strategic initiatives would be implemented to enhance business development and improve quality of life of the citizens.

To combat the challenges, Tinubu stressed the importance of enhancing intelligence capabilities, strengthening community policing, and equipping security forces adequately and collaboration.

He also underscored the need to address the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty, unemployment and inadequate education to ensure lasting peace.

According to him, Nigeria’s economic stability is crucial for its growth and prosperity, noting that his administration has been working tirelessly to diversify the economy, investing in key sectors such as agriculture, technology, and renewable energy.

“As we strive towards the vision of a prosperous and self-sufficient nation, we recognise that economic stability is crucial. It serves as the bedrock upon which we can build sustainable growth, create jobs, and foster innovation. However, achieving this stability requires more than just favourable policies; it demands collective action among the government, business leaders, civil society, and, indeed, the citizenry.

In her remarks, Rivers State Deputy Governor, Ngozi Odu, while representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara at the event, stressed the need for collective effort to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

She said Rivers State had experienced firsthand, the impact of economic instability on local communities, businesses, and government operations.

To achieve economic stability and national security, the deputy governor called for the diversion of the economy from oil, addressing infrastructure deficit, implementing sound fiscal policies and creating conducive environment for small scale businesses to thrive.

Earlier in her address, the President and Chairman of Council of the Nigerian Institute of Management, Christiana Atako, emphasised the critical need for collective action to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

Keynote speaker at the conference, Dr Ajoritsedere Awosika, underscored the urgent need for collective action to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges.

She noted that Nigeria’s journey has been marred by trials as the faced challenging task of securing its economy and safeguarding its nation.