The Federal Government of Nigeria has emphasized the crucial role non-state actors (NSAs) must play in national and economic development, acknowledging its own challenges, including a significant revenue deficit that has impacted its ability to pay salaries. Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of Budget and National Economic Planning, made these remarks during the 30th Annual Development Forum in Abuja. He stressed that NSAs, particularly Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), should collaborate with the government to address issues like healthcare, the environment, the economy, public policy, empowerment, and support for vulnerable citizens. Bagudu highlighted the need for inclusive engagement and partnership between the government and NSAs to overcome the country's economic challenges and help implement its national development plan.
Dr. Sarah Alade, a former acting Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari, echoed the importance of NSAs' involvement in achieving economic development. She noted that the estimated cost of the National Development Plan (2021-2025) is N348 trillion, with the private sector expected to provide approximately N298 trillion, representing about 86% of the total required amount. Alade stressed the need for NSAs, including organizations like LAPO, to align with the national development agenda to address the financial burden of the development plan and support its objectives.
The speakers at the forum called for a partnership between the government and NSAs to address social and economic development challenges and lift millions of people out of poverty. They emphasized the importance of NSAs' involvement in shaping the economic destiny of Nigeria and contributing to sustainable progress through inclusive growth and workforce development.
Non-state actors are essential partners in addressing Nigeria's economic and social challenges, particularly in light of the government's revenue constraints. The collaboration between the government and NSAs is vital to achieving the country's national development goals and fostering inclusive growth and progress.
