Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu, has said entrepreneurship, technology, and innovation are pivotal drivers of Nigeria’s economic growth.
He said this stance aligned with the legislative agenda of the 10th House of Representatives that focuses on promoting inclusive growth through legislative interventions.
According to a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker, Levinus Nwabughiogu, Kalu said this at the 2024 Guardian of the Nation International (GOTNI) Emerging Leaders Conference (ELC) in Abuja over the weekend.
The deputy speaker, Sam Hart, represented by his special adviser on public affairs, also lauded the government initiatives that support startups and infrastructure development, saying they are steps in the right direction.
He said: “It is a pleasure to be here at the 2024 Emerging Leaders Conference, standing before a room filled with Nigeria’s future icons, each of you poised to shape our nation’s journey from good to great.
“Our social and economic environment is complex, with challenges like poverty, systemic issues, and political obstacles. Yet, Nigeria’s rich social fabric, rooted in communal values, education, and respect, remains a source of strength.
“This sense of community is crucial – it creates a foundation for social cooperation, collective growth, and the development of empowered grassroots movements that can advocate for positive change.
“On the economic front, Nigeria stands at a critical juncture, with an immense opportunity to drive growth through entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology. Government initiatives that support startups and infrastructure development are steps in the right direction.
“Our aim must be to create an environment that nurtures creativity and opens doors for our entrepreneurs to thrive globally. Nigeria can harness its vast potential by transforming our economic landscape and curating an entrepreneurial ecosystem, leading to sustainable growth and increased competitiveness.”
Kalu, who stressed integrity and dedication in visionary leadership, also urged the participants to prioritise Nigeria’s development and imbibe the culture of resilience for the country’s good.
