The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) played a prominent role at the 2025 West Africa Economic Summit (WAES), driving critical discussions on enhancing exports and unlocking investment across the region.
The event, held at the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja, brought together policymakers, business leaders, regional stakeholders, and development partners under the theme: โUnlocking Trade and Investment Opportunities in the Region.โ
During a high-impact panel session titled โGlobal Competition: Scaling Exports via Industrialisation and Port Reforms,โ NESG CEO Dr. Tayo Aduloju delivered practical recommendations for strengthening Nigeriaโs and West Africaโs positions in global trade. In his highlights, he noted the level of persistence the challenges surrounding infrastructure are undermining intra-African commerce.
โIt remains easier to trade outside the continent than within it. We must address infrastructure inefficiencies and align the interpretation of trade protocols across borders to unlock regional commerce and competitiveness,” Dr. Adeloju expressed.
Speaking further, he stressed the need to reshape the narrative around Africaโs trade and investment landscape. Dr. Aduloju advocated for renewed focus on Special Economic Zones and regional trade corridors as vital tools for driving industrial expansion and export diversification.
Looking ahead, he underscored the importance of human capital development. โNigeriaโs youth can only become a competitive advantage if equipped with relevant digital and technical skills,โ he said, urging investments in training the next generation of digital workers and innovators.
Highlighting NESGโs forward-thinking strategy, Dr. Aduloju called for stronger public-private partnerships (PPPs) to bridge infrastructure and industrial gaps. He also recommended exploring innovative funding sources including diaspora contributions to support sustainable economic transformation.
Dr. Adulojuโs remarks outlined a comprehensive path toward regional competitiveness, centered on three priorities: closing infrastructure deficits, upskilling human capital, and harmonising cross-border policies. He emphasised that progress requires intentional collaboration at both national and regional levels.
As a key policy driver, NESG remains a vocal contributor at WAES 2025, actively participating in sessions focused on AfCFTA implementation, investment readiness, and digital transformation. The Summit affirms NESGโs commitment to advancing policy reforms that generate employment, attract investment, and position Nigeria and the wider region as a globally competitive economic force.
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