By Tony Obiechina, Abuja
The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) on Friday inducted the second cohort of its Non-Resident Fellowship Programme (NRFP).
In a statement made available in Abuja this underscores its commitment to bridging the gap between socioeconomic research and public policy in Nigeria.
The NRFP is designed to foster collaboration among leading experts to produce actionable insights that influence evidence-based policymaking.
This 18-month edition leverages the expertise of distinguished fellows to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges. By strengthening the connection between research and governance reforms, the program contributes to sustainable development in a complex and dynamic global environment.
In his keynote address, Dr. Tayo Aduloju, CEO of the NESG, described the NRFP as a “beacon of knowledge” and a transformative platform for driving impactful governance reform.
He highlighted the first cohort’s achievements, including impactful cluster reports and positive feedback from stakeholders.
“The NRFP is a testament to our dedication to shaping Nigeria’s development agenda through high-quality research and evidence-based policies,” Dr. Aduloju noted.
He also emphasized the NESG’s vision of building a Pan-African network of economists and researchers to foster transformative, cross-border conversations that drive Africa toward global competitiveness.
Dr. Olusegun Omisakin, Director of Research at the NESG, welcomed the new cohort by emphasizing the importance of collaboration in addressing Nigeria’s developmental challenges. He noted that members of the first cohort have become integral to the NESG’s research ecosystem, contributing to broader projects and strengthening the research department’s capabilities.
He also stressed the need to focus on governance, inclusive growth, and critical sectors such as trade and the economy.
During the inauguration, Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf, Chairman of the NESG, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to translating high-quality research into actionable policies.
He highlighted the NESG’s extensive contributions, including research in telecommunications, oil and gas, and maritime sectors, alongside hosting impactful conferences and facilitating public dialogue.
“Despite recent reforms like fuel subsidy removal and FX policy changes, economic growth must translate into improved livelihoods for Nigeria’s vulnerable population. The NRFP provides a platform to harness research to tackle these pressing challenges,” Mr. Yusuf stated.
He encouraged the new fellows to work diligently and contribute meaningfully to transforming Nigeria into a modern and globally competitive economy.
The second cohort features distinguished researchers and policymakers selected for their expertise in addressing critical areas of Nigeria’s development:
Economy and Trade Thematic Area
Adesoji Farayibi: A doctoral researcher in Economics at the University of Ibadan, Head of Economic Development and Research at DAWN Commission, and Co-leader of FirstFord Africa.
*Dr. Mustapha Hussaini: Senior Lecturer and Dean at Sule Lamido University, recognized for his contributions to economic research and policy development.
*Dr. Oluwanbepelumi Esther Olanubi: An economist specializing in macroeconomic modeling and international development, and Co-founder of Kingsgate Advisors Institute.
Governance and Social Inclusion Thematic Area
*Dr. Augustine Okere: An expert in development policy analysis and international political economy, with a focus on socio-economic inclusion and global development agendas.
*Dr. Aminat Olohunlana: A multidisciplinary researcher with 17 years of experience in gender development, financial inclusion, and climate change.
Dr. Zayyad Tsiga: Senior Policy Manager at J-PAL Africa and former CEO of the Kaduna State Residents Identity Management Agency, specializing in digital public infrastructure and e-governance.
According to the statement, “the NESG remains unwavering in its mission to create a sustainable, inclusive, and competitive economy by fostering collaboration among industry leaders, policymakers, and researchers. This second cohort of Non-Resident Fellows embodies the knowledge, expertise, and dedication necessary to drive meaningful change and shape Nigeria’s future”.
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