The President, Nigerian Economic Society (NES), Prof. Adeola Adenikinju, has called on graduating Economics students to brace up, saying they have a lot of role to play in shaping the Nigerian economy.
Adenikinju made the call during the induction ceremony of graduating Economics students of Pan-Atlantic University (PAU), Lagos, as Associates of NES.
Established in 1957, NES is one of the oldest professional associations in the country. Its past leaders include Professors Ojetunji Aboyade, Sam Aluko, and H.M.A. Onitiri, Chief Philip Asiodu, Dr. Shamsudeen Usman, and Professor Ibi Ajayi.
Since Professor Adenikinju came on board as the NES President in 2023, he has inducted hundreds of graduating Economics students into the body as Associates. It was the turn of PAU Economics students.
The ceremony was attended by the management of the university led by the Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Peter Bamkole; the Registrar, Mr. Kingsley Ukaoha; the Dean of School of Management and Social Sciences, Dr. Olusola Oni; the Head of Department of Economics, Dr. Friday Anetor; Council members of the NES—Prof. Emeka Osuji and Dr. Ekundayo Mesagan; as well as Dr. Stanley Nwani, a faculty member of the university.
Adenikinju, a Professor of Economics from the University of Ibadan, said membership of the society connects the inductees to a vibrant community of scholars, practitioners, and policymakers.
He pointed out that Economics is more than a discipline but a vital tool for understanding and transforming the world.
The professor said: “This induction is far more than a ceremonial rite—it is a significant transition from academic pursuit to professional engagement. As new members of NES, you are embracing a responsibility to contribute to the economic advancement of Nigeria and, indeed, the African continent.
“As emerging economists, you will be tasked with solving complex issues—poverty, unemployment, inflation, and inequality among them. Your work will inform public policy, influence investment decisions, and shape the trajectory of communities and nations.
“Economists play a critical role in ensuring optimal resource allocation, assessing trade-offs, and evaluating the long-term impacts of government decisions. Whether it’s stimulating growth, stabilizing prices, or fostering inclusion, your insights will matter.
“In a globally interconnected world, the reach of economics extends beyond borders. Your knowledge will be key to navigating Nigeria’s path in global markets, foreign investment, and trade diplomacy. Furthermore, economics empowers innovation and entrepreneurship—through understanding markets, behavior, and risk. You are now equipped to create new opportunities, improve livelihoods, and uplift society.”
According to the president, the students will gain a lot by being a member of NES in terms of professional credibility and visibility, mentorship and career guidance, and others.
The president, therefore, urged the inductees to think like an economist by being analytical, curious, ethical, and courageous in their pursuit of change. “The future of Nigeria depends on minds like yours,” he added.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Dr. Peter Bamkole, whose message was delivered by the Registrar, Mr. Kingsley Ukaoha, urged them to use their membership of the prestigious society to get into the room where conversations are being held.
In his remarks, the HOD, Friday Anetor, charged them to take advantage of networking and mentorship the society provides, adding that, “the society provides a lot of opportunities.”
The president of the Nigerian Economics Students Association (NESA), Nasirudeen Babalola, thanked Prof. Adenikinju for his strides in leading the society. “Let us make use of the rare opportunity,” he charged his colleagues.
Thirty-seven graduating students were inducted.
