By Mohammed Bello Doka
Harnessing Emerging Opportunities in Creative, Digital, Green, and Blue Economies for National Development
In a landmark symposium held at the National Assembly Library and Resource Centre, Abuja, stakeholders gathered to explore pathways for harnessing opportunities in Nigeria's creative, digital, green, and blue economies. This significant event, organized by the office of Rt. Hon. Patty Etete-Inemeh Special Assistant to the Office of the President of the Senate on Strategy and Creative Economy and chaired by Mon-Charles Egbo, highlighted Nigeria’s potential for economic growth through collaborative strategies and legislative action.
Under the able leadership of the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the 10th Senate has demonstrated a commendable commitment to tackling Nigeria's multifaceted challenges. Known for his legislative acumen, nationalist approach, and visionary leadership, Senator Akpabio has championed initiatives aimed at job creation, rural development, and fostering an investment-friendly environment. His dedication to strengthening the legislative framework for economic development reflects a profound understanding of the needs of Nigerians and a strategic focus on national progress.
The symposium opened with three impactful lectures, each addressing crucial sectors within the Nigerian economy. Dr. Kizito Alakwe delivered the first lecture on "Creative Economy and the Neglected Opportunities: Spotlighting the Cultural Industry," underscoring the untapped potential within Nigeria’s cultural sector. The second lecture, "Towards a Prosperous Blue Economy: Leveraging the Fisheries and Aquaculture Sub-sector," by Dr. Abba Y. Abdullah, emphasized the economic promise of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. Dr. Halima Ahmed Usman concluded with "Powering Rural Development, Cottage Industries, and the Export Processing Zones with the Green Economy: Some Options," which focused on the green economy as a driving force for rural and cottage industry development.
Aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for sustainable progress, the symposium highlighted key legislative measures including the recently enacted Electricity Act. This Act, a testament to the Senate's proactive approach, is set to boost energy access and support green economy initiatives. Additionally, four critical bills spearheaded by Senator Akpabio were introduced, notably the Cultural Industries Development Agency proposal, aimed at fostering cultural production and commercialization within Nigeria.
The symposium culminated in the unveiling of Perspectives on Senator Godswill Akpabio and the 10th Senate: One Year After, a publication that documents the legislative strides made under Senator Akpabio’s stewardship, reinforcing his commitment to national development.
Participants Praised the organizers for orchestrating such a meaningful and forward-looking event, which provided a platform for dialogue and actionable insights. Their dedication to advancing Nigeria’s economic potential and empowering its citizens through well-crafted policy discussions marks a significant step towards collaborative national progress.
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