Social Entrepreneurs’ Forum Relaunched To Fight Poverty

The Nigerian American Social Entrepreneurs Forum (NASEF) has been relaunched in Lagos with its global convener, Bishop Priscilla Otuya, declaring enterprise as a key weapon against poverty and social vices in Nigeria and Africa

At the relaunch under the theme “Fighting Poverty and Social Vices by Mobilising Enterprise for Global Good”, Otuya said government alone cannot solve Nigeria’s mounting challenges of insecurity, unemployment, human trafficking, drug abuse and illegal migration.

“The time has come for every Nigerian to stop asking only what the government can do for us and begin asking, ‘What can we do to help Nigeria?’”

She told dignitaries, diplomats, entrepreneurs and members of the press that “nation-building is a collective responsibility.”

The repositioned forum, in collaboration with the KOGA Faith Foundation, Washington D.C., and SESS AFRICA (Social Enterprise Support Services Ltd) will function as an international platform connecting entrepreneurs, investors, governments, development agencies, corporations and the African diaspora.

Otuya said the forum will focus on business fora, investment summits, incubation programmes, mentorship, skills development, and trade missions to create jobs and support women, youths, and underserved communities across Nigeria, Africa and beyond.

“Social entrepreneurs are the hope of the nation,” she stated, adding that, “they identify society’s greatest challenges and create sustainable business solutions that generate employment, restore dignity, build communities and transform lives.”*

NASEF also formally dedicated NEWS Nigeria USA International as its official international media and strategic communications platform to promote enterprise, investment opportunities, diaspora engagement and social innovation.

The new leaders inaugurated are Dr Emeka Henry Obidi, executive director; Ms Gloria Izuogwu, deputy executive director and Barr. Nene Kalu Mmaju, director, Young African Female CEOs.