The WIMB Africa Business Roundtable, themed "Politics as a Nation-Building Catalyst," recently took place at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos. The event brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including business, media, creative, engineering, legal, and political. They discussed pressing economic and national issues, exchanged perspectives, and explored practical solutions. The roundtable was organized by the African Women Foundation for Nation Building (WIMB Africa) and provided a platform for sector-focused dialogue.
Rising transportation costs, inadequate infrastructure, and limited economic opportunities for women and young people dominated the discussions. Stakeholders emphasized that sustainable national development requires more than government action, stressing the need for effective institutions, policy implementation, and an informed citizenry capable of holding public officials accountable. They also examined mechanisms for holding elected officials accountable, including constitutional provisions governing legislative representatives.
Former Rector of Yaba College of Technology, Engr. Obafemi Omokungbe, highlighted the importance of policies and institutions in sustaining infrastructure investments. He identified roads, electricity, water, and broadband as critical infrastructure, but stressed that their effectiveness depends on the policy framework governing their development, maintenance, and use. Omokungbe called for stronger institutions, clear standards, and effective implementation.
Keynote speaker, Mayor Akinpelu, emphasized that policy reforms can promote economic stability and create a more predictable environment for businesses to plan and invest. However, he noted that economic reforms can affect different segments of society differently, urging policymakers to introduce targeted interventions for vulnerable groups, particularly rural women. Akinpelu also encouraged WIMB Africa to promote cooperative societies among women.
Veteran journalist and media career development specialist, Lekan Otufodunrin, examined the effects of major government policies on households and businesses, citing the removal of fuel subsidy as an example. He noted that the policy has significantly affected transportation costs, with the impact extending to other areas of economic activity. The roundtable also placed strong emphasis on citizen oversight and public accountability.
Participants urged Nigerians to take greater interest in government budgets, public expenditure, and projects earmarked for their communities. They emphasized that citizens should be able to demand information about public funds allocated to specific projects, while the media and civil society organizations should provide platforms for scrutiny, public education, and engagement. Founder of WIMB Africa, Dr. Bukola Bello Jaiyesimi, said the roundtable reflected the organization's broader commitment to community empowerment and nation building across Africa.
The event featured a diverse range of stakeholders, including WIMB Africa Founder, Dr. Bukola Bello Jaiyesimi; keynote speaker, Mayor Akinpelu; moderator, Mr. Gbadebo Akinyemi; and social-impact artist and climate-justice advocate, Ms. Anjolaoluwa Olanrewaju. Established in 2014, WIMB Africa operates across five African countries, and its monthly Business Roundtable brings together stakeholders from different sectors to examine pressing national issues and explore practical solutions to development challenges.
Key points
- Stakeholders call for policies that translate government decisions into measurable improvements in citizens' daily lives.
- Effective institutions, policy implementation, and an informed citizenry are necessary for sustainable national development.
- Citizen oversight and public accountability are crucial for holding elected officials accountable.
