FeaturedHighlight

Elumelu: Those seeking political office must engage in economic debate

458

By Victoria Ayuwei—–For his significant contribution to economic thought and knowledge, the prestigious Nigerian Economic Society (NES) Tuesday honoured Mr Tony Elumelu with a distinguished fellowship of the Society.

“As an Economist, being recognised by the paramount national society for my profession feels both exciting and fulfilling, said an elated Elumelu.

“NES has done immensely well – it is one of the leading intellectual organisations in the country and has produced some of the most insightful research on economic policy – but as I said to them today, the world is fast changing, thus we must rethink the intent and purposes for which the Society was set up 60 years ago.”

“The NES should be more actively involved in shaping and creating a similar platform – through the National Assembly, INEC or the media – that ensures that those who want to lead us must engage in economic debate. It will encourage those vying for office to read available economic research and findings, and prepare a clear-cut agenda. When we begin to have enriched conversations on the economy, then Nigerians can make more informed decisions in chosing those who lead us.”

“To move forward, our leaders must pass progressive laws. There is so much we can unleash with such enabling policies.”

 

“We need to rethink how we are shaping and intervening in policy. Are we simply researching and analysing or are we following through to make sure that our work is being read, people are listening to it and that we are more active in ensuring the implementation of our policy recommendations?

“Why does this matter? It matters because we have all seen that economic progress is imperative for national development. In the United States, each major Presidential candidate must engage in debate to discuss the economy and what each candidate and his/her party promises to offer the country. Such debates at the highest levels not only mandates each candidate to have a feasible economic roadmap for the country, but also provides a platform where these agendas can be debated, refined and improved upon!

“Conducting and producing research is one thing but by far the most important aspect is implementation. We should hold our law makers more accountable in passing pieces of legislation that will drive economic and social development. Indeed, there are a variety of low hanging fruits that we can easily achieve as a country by legislating appropriately and timely. We won’t succeed without the right policies backed by legislation and due implementation.”

 

The Nigerian Economic Society (NES) was formed in 1957 by Nigerian scholars as a united platform for Nigerian Economists and allied Social Scientists to provide intellectual leadership in the process of understanding and managing economic, social and political change in Nigeria.  One of the objectives is to stimulate public interest in Economics and Social Studies, encourage the study and discussion of relevant problems with special reference to Nigeria, and provide a means of intercourse between persons interested in the fields of study.

Leave a comment

Related Articles

NGE, Senate, House of Reps’ Press Corps Felicitate NNPCL’s spokesman Soneye on NIPR Award

Following numerous congratulatory messages, the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and the...

Information Commissioners in APC-Controlled States Hail Tinubu’s Reforms, Nigerians’ Resilience

President Bola Tinubu’s administration received commendation from Information Commissioners of APC-controlled states...

Tribunal upholds FCCPC’s $220m fine on Meta, awards $35,000 as costs

Meta Platforms Inc.’s effort to overturn the $220 million fine imposed by...

Just in: Ex-Rivers Deputy Speaker Sues FG, CBN, Others Over Release of LG Funds to Administrator

A legal challenge has emerged for the Rivers State Sole Administrator, retired...

Rivers Administrator Ibas at Reps, Wants More Time for Briefing

Due to the precarious security and political environment stemming from the state...

US Dollar Climbs to N1,605 as Naira Weakens

The Nigerian naira has continued its depreciation against the US dollar at...

FCT Police’s Swift Action Leads to Recovery of Snatched SUV 30 Minutes After

In a remarkable display of swift operational efficiency, the Federal Capital Territory...

Striking NiMet workers suspend action

Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) workers in Abuja called off their strike on...

NEC Approves Cotton, Textile Board to Boost Economy

The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the creation of a Cotton,...

NYSC to NDLEA: No legal framework for drug testing of corps members

A day after the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) proposed mandatory...

Anger Over Unpaid Minimum Wage Leads to FCT Workers’ Secretariat Shutdown

Frustrated by the Area Council Chairmen’s failure to implement the ₦70,000 national...

In Benue, 2Baba and Natasha Receive Royal Blessings in Cultural Lead-up to Wedding

Legendary Nigerian singer Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba or 2Face, has...

Kunle Afod Breaks Silence on Sexual Harassment in Nollywood

Filmmaker Kunle Afod has spoken about the ongoing conversation around sexual harassment...

I was shocked to hear people call me gay — Uzor Arukwe

Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has opened up about a surprising rumour regarding...

FCT Police Nab 3 Suspects Over Orozo Boys Brigade Camp Attack

It appears justice might be on the horizon for Johnson John, the...

Just in: Alleged $1bln fraud: Court grants EFCC authority to arrest, detain six CBEX staff

By Daniel Okejeme A glimmer of hope has emerged for investors who...

CBN Approves Cash-Based BTA for 2025 Hajj Pilgrims

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has approved a cash-based Basic Travel...

Cyberbullying FRSC official: Court remands TikTok creator, adjourns until April 30

A TikTok content creator, Emmanuel Ajibade, was hauled before an Akure Magistrates’...

Defections: Atiku a Loser Again, Says Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga

Mr. Bayo Onanuga has reacted to the recent defections of prominent Peoples...

Nigeria remains attractive for investment, Finance Minister Edun assures investors

Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun...