Shettima to lead NEC conference on inclusive growth amid Nigeria’s economic push

Abdullateef Fowewe

Vice President Kashim Shettima will chair a pivotal two-day National Economic Council (NEC) Conference starting Monday, aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s economic coordination and fostering inclusive growth across all 36 states.

The event, convened by Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, kicks off February 9 at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Its theme, “Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development: The Renewed Hope National Development Plan,” seeks to align state policies with the federal government’s long-term agenda.

Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), announced the conference in a statement on Sunday.

Governors, key national stakeholders, top officials, development partners, and private-sector leaders are set to attend, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour.

The summit will tackle macroeconomic priorities like fiscal coordination, investment mobilization, and shared development strategies between federal and state governments.

“The conference will focus on national economic issues aimed at encouraging economic growth and development across the country,” said Dr Deborah Oko Odo, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning and NEC Secretary.

Shettima, as NEC chair, will preside over deliberations to deepen reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda and produce far-reaching policy directions for states.