The Nigerian Economic Society (NES) is set to bestow its prestigious 2025 Distinguished Fellow Award upon Vice President Kashim Shettima and Dr. Iyabo Masha, Director of the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four on International Monetary Affairs and Development. This esteemed recognition acknowledges their significant contributions to economic development, both nationally and globally. Vice President Shettima’s leadership in economic policy formulation and implementation within the Nigerian government is deemed worthy of this honour, while Dr. Masha’s pioneering role in international monetary affairs, particularly her leadership of the G24, solidifies her standing as a prominent figure in global economic governance.
The NES 66th Annual Conference, scheduled to take place in Abuja, will serve as the platform for this prestigious award ceremony. The conference, themed around inclusive economic growth, will bring together key stakeholders to deliberate on critical economic issues facing Nigeria. The distinguished presence of Vice President Shettima, who will officially open the conference, underscores the government’s commitment to robust economic dialogue and policy formulation. Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, will deliver the opening remarks, further highlighting the importance of the event. Central Bank of Nigeria Governor, Mr. Yemi Cardoso, is also expected to deliver special remarks, adding to the weight of expert insights offered at the conference.
In addition to the Distinguished Fellow Award, the NES will also confer its Fellow Award upon ten other prominent individuals, including Mr. Yemi Cardoso and renowned economist Bismarck Rewane, CEO of Financial Derivative Company. This recognition celebrates their substantial contributions to the Nigerian economy and their respective fields of expertise. The NES aims to foster a collaborative environment where experts like these can share their knowledge and insights, contributing to a more robust and inclusive economic landscape in Nigeria.
The NES 66th Annual Conference places significant emphasis on collaborative efforts to achieve inclusive economic growth within Nigeria. The conference theme underscores the need for diverse perspectives and concerted action to address the country’s economic challenges. The discussions will revolve around crucial areas such as investment-driven growth, which aims to stimulate economic expansion through strategic investments in key sectors. Regional integration, another focal point, seeks to enhance economic cooperation and trade amongst Nigerian states and within the broader African context. The conference will also delve into the importance of innovation, recognizing its role as a catalyst for economic development and competitiveness.
Furthering its comprehensive approach to economic development, the NES conference will also address human capital development and inclusive governance. Recognizing the vital role of a skilled and educated workforce, the conference will explore strategies to enhance human capital, thus boosting productivity and economic output. Inclusive governance, another critical theme, emphasizes the importance of transparent and participatory governance structures in fostering economic progress. By incorporating these diverse perspectives, the NES aims to create a holistic approach to economic development that considers both macroeconomic factors and the crucial role of human capital and governance.
The outcomes of the NES conference, including the deliberations, suggestions, and policy recommendations, will be formally presented to the Federal Government and other sub-national governments. This underscores the NES’s commitment to influencing policy and contributing to practical solutions for Nigeria’s economic challenges. Dr. Masha’s recognition as a Distinguished Fellow further highlights her exemplary career, which began at the Central Bank of Nigeria before transitioning to the International Monetary Fund in 2003. Her extensive research and expertise in areas like monetary policy, financial stability, and regional integration demonstrate her commitment to fostering robust and sustainable economic growth. Her leadership as the Director of the G24, the first African to hold this position, positions her as a key voice in promoting the interests of developing countries in the global financial landscape. This prestigious award from the NES not only recognizes her individual achievements but also highlights the importance of international cooperation and collaboration in addressing global economic challenges.
