By Dorcas Jonah
Mr Elijah Ogbuokiri, President, the Chartered Institute of Development Studies and Administration of Nigeria (CIDSAN), has called for collaboration among stakeholders in the sector to address Nigeria’s developmental challenges.
Ogbuokiri made the call at the maiden CIDSAN national conference in Abuja on Monday.
The president emphasised the need for collective commitment to sustainable development.
Speaking on the theme, ‘Effective and Sustainable Development in an Emerging Economy: The Nigerian Experience,’ Ogbuokiri said the institute in line with its mandate and vision, would advance Nigeria’s developmental goals.
He said that the institute was leveraging on its dedication to foster professional excellence in development studies and administration.
“We gathered here in Abuja not only to restate this institution’s role in advancing Nigeria’s developmental goals, but also to tackle a critical and timely theme.
“As we reflect on Nigeria’s journey, we see remarkable potentials and formidable challenges that have restrained our progress.
“We stand here at a crucial juncture, where the commitment to sustainable development is no longer an option but a necessity,” he said.
Ogbuokiri said that CIDSAN envisioned an institution dedicated to fostering professional excellence in development studies and administration.
“Today, we affirm our commitment to create a Nigeria that not only meets its developmental needs, but also thrives as a key player on the global stage.
”As an emerging economy, Nigeria has a unique role to play, balancing rapid growth with sustainable practices that safeguard the environment, promote social equity and strengthen our economic resilience,” he said.
Ogbuokiri said the conference offered an opportunity for a deeper reflection on the meaning of sustainable development in a dynamic and complex country like Nigeria.
He added that such sustainability requires more than just the pursuit of economic growth.
He said sound environmental inclusivity rooted in genuine desire for community upliftment was also needed.
“Through our training programmes, professional certifications and research initiatives, we aim to produce leaders who are ready to implement policies that advances sustainable development, minimise waste and maximise value.
“The Nigerian experience in development is unique and significant. As we all know, our nation faces pressing issues such as infrastructural gap, unemployment and educational disparities.
“Nigeria has shown resilience and innovation, often thriving even amid economic fluctuations and complex socio-political landscapes,” he said.
Ogbuokiri said the conference offer a platform for stakeholders to share lessons learnt and solutions that reflect Nigeria’s realities.
He said through collaboration and exchange programmes, the institute could translate these insights into actionable plans that would move the country forward.
The president called for the collaboration of government agencies, private sector leaders, academics and civil society organisations, to build an inclusive and sustainable future.
He assured of the institute`s commitment to partner local and international organisations to foster cross-sector collaboration that drive effective policy and practice.
Speakers are the event included, Prof. Andrew Zamani, Prof Jerry Vambe, Dr Soji Adeniyi, Prof. Osa Oviasuyi, and Rev. Godwin Okonkwo.
Others are Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa and Prince Ihendu Okoro, who spoke on leadership deficit which they blamed for the developmental problems confronting Nigeria.
The highlights of the three-day conference include the presentation of awards to deserving dignitaries who have contributed immensely to national development in various sectors, as well as the induction of new members.
