By Vivian Emoni
The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has urged the Federal Government to sustain economic policies beyond the 2027 general elections to support Nigeria’s ambition of building a trillion dollar economy.
The First Deputy President of ACCI, Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, gave the advice when he received a merit award from the Commerce and Industry Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CICAN), for his contributions to commerce and industry.
This is contained in a statement by the ACCI Media and Strategy Officer, Mrs Olayemi John-Mensah, made available on Tuesday night.
The ACCI’s first deputy president received the award during CICAN’s 20th anniversary celebration, recognising his contributions to commerce, industry and business journalism.
Adesugba called for policy consistency, stronger economic coordination and increased investment in productive sectors to support Nigeria’s ambition of building a one trillion dollar economy.
He identified policy continuity beyond the 2027 general elections as critical to achieving the target, warning that policy reversal remained the greatest risk.
He described reliable electricity supply as a major priority for economic transformation, while also advocating stronger fiscal and monetary policy coordination, alongside fair implementation of the new Tax Acts.
He called for greater participation by state governments and improved national economic data through a strengthened National Bureau of Statistics.
Addressing the organised private sector, he urged businesses to move beyond complaints and adopt evidence-based advocacy to influence government policies.
The ACCI first deputy president also called on financial institutions to expand long-term credit to manufacturing, agriculture and infrastructure, particularly as interest rates ease.
On the media’s role in economic development, Adesugba outlined seven responsibilities for journalists in promoting national growth.
According to him, these include explaining economic issues, verifying information, tracking policies, investigating developments and providing balanced reporting.
Adesugba also urged journalists to report markets responsibly and amplify the activities of businesses operating within the real economy.
He commended CICAN for its commitment to commerce and industry reporting, urging members to sustain professionalism and provide credible, insightful coverage of Nigeria’s business environment.
Earlier, the CICAN Chairman, Mr Gabriel Kuma, expressed appreciation to Adesugba for his continued support and commitment to the association.
Kuma said Adesugba’s mentorship and support would continue to inspire members, while strengthening the association’s growth, unity and professional development.
The merit award underscores Adesugba’s engagement with the commerce and industry community and his contributions to business journalism and economic policy discourse.(NAN)
VOE/DCO
======
Edited by Deborah Coker
Comments