President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assured Nigerians and the international community on Tuesday that the nation’s economy is on the path to recovery, emphasizing that the positive effects of ongoing economic reforms will soon be felt across the country. Tinubu made these remarks while virtually flagging off the two-day Green Economy Summit in Minna, Niger State, themed “Sustainable Future: Harnessing Green Assets and Innovation for Niger State’s Prosperity.”

Represented by the Minister of State for Solid Minerals, Senator Abdullahi Sabi, President Tinubu underscored his administration’s dedication to fostering sustainable economic growth through innovative green policies. He highlighted the importance of Niger State’s Green Economy initiative, noting that it aligns with the Federal Government’s broader vision for a sustainable and resilient economy.

New Solid Minerals Policy to Boost Green Economy

During his speech, Senator Sabi provided insights into the new solid mineral development policy, which was approved during Monday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting. The policy, Sabi explained, is central to Nigeria’s transition toward a green economy. It aims to eradicate illegal mining activities, promote resource efficiency, and allow legitimate businesses to operate in an environmentally responsible manner.

“The new policy intends to ensure resource-use efficiency while allowing legal operators to thrive in the mining sector. Niger State is blessed with several mineral deposits, and this policy will facilitate the efficient and sustainable extraction of these resources,” Sabi remarked. He emphasized that Niger State’s abundant mineral wealth could play a crucial role in Nigeria’s green economy transformation and contribute to overall economic recovery.

President Tinubu’s Call for Patience and Understanding

Addressing the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians, President Tinubu urged citizens to exercise patience as his administration implements difficult but necessary reforms to stabilize the economy. He assured that these reforms, though painful in the short term, are designed to lay the foundation for long-term prosperity. He cited food security as a top priority and assured that economic recovery is imminent.

“Please pray for us, give us your understanding, and as we make this powerful sacrifice, the gains of our sacrifice are just a short minute or a few hours away from us. Very soon, we shall begin to reap the benefits of these tough decisions, and our economy will bounce back,” he stated.

Niger State’s Ambitious Green Economy Blueprint

Governor Mohammed Bago of Niger State, who convened the summit, unveiled Niger State’s first Green Economy Blueprint, which outlines a visionary roadmap for sustainable development. The blueprint focuses on renewable energy, sustainable transportation, infrastructure, agriculture, inclusivity, and tourism. It also provides a framework for sourcing financial support, technology transfer, capacity building, and fostering strategic partnerships.

“We are using this summit to present a draft of our Green Economy Blueprint to stakeholders for review and input before it is formally launched. This document is not just a policy guide; it is a clarion call for collective action,” Governor Bago declared.

Bago emphasized that Niger State’s green economy agenda is aimed at creating jobs, reducing poverty, and fostering economic inclusivity. “We aspire to create a state where its citizens enjoy access to fundamental social amenities and infrastructure that enhance the quality of life, such as healthcare, education, food security, clean water, and renewable energy.”

Collaboration for Economic Transformation

The summit brought together key stakeholders, including public officials, private sector leaders, civil society, and international development partners, to discuss how Niger State can leverage its natural resources for sustainable growth. Governor Bago called for active collaboration from all sectors to ensure the success of the green economy agenda.

“The future of our state depends on how well we harness our resources, build partnerships, and innovate solutions to the challenges we face. We are committed to a vision that will not only transform Niger State but also contribute to Nigeria’s overall economic resurgence,” he added.

Support from Key Figures

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, praised Governor Bago for his leadership and commitment to environmental sustainability. “I am glad that Governor Bago is retracing the steps we took in the past to promote a green economy. This summit is timely, and I commend the governor for his foresight,” Abubakar said.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State also lauded the initiative, expressing optimism that Niger State’s focus on renewable energy and sustainable practices would yield economic and environmental benefits. He highlighted the need for investment in irrigation technologies and renewable energy to combat desertification and boost agricultural productivity.

“The increasing cost of fossil fuels and carbon emissions into our environment is a great concern. We must invest in renewable energy to ensure sustainable growth,” Zulum said, adding that his administration is committed to supporting Niger State’s green economy agenda.

Green Economy as a Catalyst for Sustainable Development

Several speakers at the summit, including experts from the solid minerals, agriculture, and renewable energy sectors, discussed the importance of a green economy in achieving sustainable development. They highlighted how investments in green technologies, sustainable mining practices, and renewable energy could drive economic diversification and job creation in Nigeria.

The summit emphasized the role of technology and innovation in driving the green economy. Governor Bago assured that the state government would work closely with the private sector and international partners to attract investment and build capacity in renewable energy, mining, and sustainable agriculture.

Conclusion: A New Era for Niger State and Nigeria

The Green Economy Summit marks a significant step toward Niger State’s transformation into a hub of green innovation and sustainability. With the support of President Tinubu’s administration and collaboration with key stakeholders, Niger State aims to leverage its natural and mineral resources to drive sustainable economic growth.

Governor Bago’s ambitious green economy blueprint sets the stage for a new era of development in the state, one that is environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically robust. As Nigeria navigates its path toward economic recovery, Niger State’s green economy vision serves as a model for other regions, demonstrating the potential of sustainable development to unlock prosperity for all.

The summit concluded with a call to action for all stakeholders to work together in implementing the green economy blueprint, ensuring that Niger State becomes a beacon of sustainability and economic resilience in Nigeria.