President Bola Tinubu addressed the 2024 Annual National Management Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Management in Port Harcourt, emphasizing that the sacrifices made through economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, will soon yield benefits for Nigerians. Represented by Head of Service Didi Walson-Jack, Tinubu noted that these reforms aim to stabilize the weak economy he inherited.

He highlighted recent government strides in diversifying the economy with investments in critical sectors like agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. Despite acknowledging the immediate hardships caused by reforms such as the floating of the Naira, he expressed confidence that the economy would recover and that citizens would soon see positive outcomes.

The theme of the conference, “Economic Stability and National Security: The Contending Issues and the Way Forward,” resonated with Tinubu, who stressed the intertwined nature of economic health and national security. He called for a multifaceted approach to address various challenges, including terrorism and banditry, while highlighting the need for better intelligence capabilities and community policing.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, represented by Deputy Governor Prof. Ngozi Odu, affirmed the conference’s timely focus, stressing that economic stability is inextricably linked to national security. He pointed out the direct impact of economic instability on local communities and urged collective efforts to tackle these pressing issues.

The President of the Nigerian Institute of Management, Christiana Atako, emphasized the importance of collective action to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, advocating for policies that prioritize non-oil sector development and improved infrastructure.

Keynote speaker Ajoritsedere Awosika echoed the need for urgent measures to address youth unemployment, which poses a significant threat to both the economy and national security.

The conference sought to provide actionable solutions and reinforce the importance of collaboration between the government and management professionals in navigating Nigeria’s complex challenges.