Nigeria Must Harness Regional Strengths To Drive Devt

The Think Tank for Sustainable Development (TTTSD) has called for a new approach to managing Nigeria’s diversity through strengthened regional development initiatives that leverage the comparative advantages of each region.

Speaking at the inaugural webinar organised by the Think Tank, keynote speaker Dr Sam Amadi, advocated a development model that allows Nigeria’s regions to grow according to their peculiar strengths and priorities. He argued that empowering regions to innovate and utilise their unique resources would stimulate national growth and improve socio-economic outcomes.

Dr Amadi urged Nigeria to draw lessons from countries such as China, which allowed its vast and diverse regions to develop through innovation and resourcefulness, thereby contributing significantly to national economic growth. He stressed that meaningful socio-economic and sustainable development in Nigeria would depend largely on government’s respect for the social contract between the state and citizens, restoration of public trust, promotion of social justice, and the entrenchment of ethical governance.

The webinar, which was the first in a planned series, attracted participants from the diaspora, media, academia, and civil society organizations.

In his opening remarks, chairman of the event, General Chris Abutu Garba (rtd), noted that the webinar came at a crucial period when Nigeria was facing growing security and developmental challenges, especially with general elections approaching. He emphasised that sustained policy dialogue of this nature could generate practical solutions and help guide citizens in making informed choices during upcoming elections. The Think Tank announced that subsequent webinars will be held periodically as part of ongoing efforts to promote evidence-based dialogue and national development.