By Chibuzor Emejor
Copyright independent
Chibuzor Emejor
The Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) has explained that unlocking domestic and foreign investment is non-negotiable, for Nigeria to sustain economic growth and deliver prosperity to the citizenry.
A statement on Sunday issued by Ms Ayanyinka Ayanlowo, Acting Head, Strategic Communication & Advocacy,NESG, saidinvestment will not come without confidence in policies, infrastructure, the legal environment, and market access.
Ayanlowo, underscores the need toposition Nigeria for a competitive edge.
She explained that as the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #31) approaches, scheduled for October 6–8, 2025, in Abuja, the sub-theme “Unlocking Investment amid Global Trade Shifts” invites critical engagement with one of the most urgent challenges and opportunities of our time: repositioning Nigeria to attract investment and thrive in a rapidly evolving global trade environment.
“With global supply chains being redefined, regional blocs strengthening, and investment flows shifting towards resilient, reform-driven markets, Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment to assert its competitiveness and unlock inclusive economic opportunities,” she said.
Ayanlowo, explained that the sub-theme of NES #31 addresses how Nigeria can deepen reform efforts to attract long-term capital, build investor trust, and strengthen its role as a hub for African and global trade.
“This sub-theme also recognises that trade and investment are interconnected: a more open, secure, and competitive trade landscape will enhance Nigeria’s appeal as an investment destination.
“At NES #31, stakeholders will explore how Nigeria can seize the moment to lead within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), position its industries for global integration, and scale up sectors with comparative advantage.”
She further stated that the main of the NES#31, “The Reform Imperative: Building a Prosperous and Inclusive Nigeria by 2030,” would spotlight key areas required to make Nigeria investment-ready in a new trade era such as modernising trade and investment policies to reflect global realities; strengthening infrastructure, logistics, and export capacity; improving the ease of doing business and investor dispute resolution; facilitating capital flows through financial market reforms as well as expanding regional value chains and export competitiveness.”
According to the statement, “These conversations are grounded in the NESG’s Arc of the Possible Strategy, which identifies investment climate and trade as short-term focus areas, and institutional efficiency and productivity as medium-term enablers of competitiveness.
“In a world where capital is constantly seeking value, predictability, and return, Nigeria must present a compelling case.
“NES #31 will rally public and private sector actors to unlock bold, coordinated reforms that strengthen Nigeria’s trade position and open doors for transformative investments across industries—especially in energy, agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.
“The Summit will not only focus on attracting investment but on making that investment inclusive, sustainable, and impactful—ensuring that reforms translate into jobs, innovation, and improved livelihoods.”
