Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has called for deeper economic coordination and broad-based reforms to drive inclusive growth across Nigeria.
Governor Soludo made the call while participating at the second National Economic Council (NEC) Conference held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
The high-level gathering brought together federal and state policymakers, private sector leaders and development stakeholders to explore practical strategies for accelerating sustainable national development in Africa’s largest economy.
Speaking as a panellist, Soludo, an economist and former Governor of Nigeria’s Central Bank, outlined the need for stronger collaboration between Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to unlock subnational economic potential.
He stressed that sustainable prosperity must extend beyond major commercial hubs to reach all regions of the country.
Revenue Mobilisation
According to the governor, inclusive growth requires coordinated fiscal and monetary policies, improved revenue mobilisation, and disciplined public financial management at both federal and state levels.
He also highlighted the importance of expanding infrastructure investment, strengthening value chains in agriculture and manufacturing, and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of Nigeria’s economy.
Competitive Workforce
Soludo advocated for greater investment in human capital development, including education, healthcare and skills acquisition, arguing that a competitive workforce is critical to long-term productivity and innovation.
He also emphasised digital transformation, improved ease of doing business, and regulatory reforms to attract domestic and foreign investment.
At the subnational level, he pointed to ongoing efforts in Anambra State to enhance security, expand infrastructure, formalise informal sector activities and create an enabling environment for enterprise.
These measures, he said, are designed to stimulate job creation, boost internally generated revenue and strengthen investor confidence.
Trade or Manufacturing
The governor further emphasised the need for states to harness local comparative advantages, whether in agriculture, technology, trade or manufacturing, while aligning development strategies with national economic priorities.
Soludo’s participation at the NEC conference signals Anambra State’s intention to play an active role in shaping Nigeria’s economic reform agenda.
The conference concluded with renewed calls for collective action, policy coherence and innovative financing mechanisms to address structural challenges and place the country on a path toward sustainable and inclusive growth.