Minister of Budget & Planning Explores Partnerships to  improve Economic Empowerment

The Minister made this known when members of the Sterling One Foundation led by the Chief Executive Officer, Olapeju Ibekwe paid him a courtesy visit in his office recently.

He said Nigeria is a blessed country, with hard working men and women who are looking for opportunity to maximise their effort; adding that the Ministry is responsible for envisioning and coordinating the nation’s vision.

He expressed enthusiasm to partner with the group and their initiative; while recognising the importance of synchronised efforts for the country’s development.

The Minister further noted that the Ministry looks forward to participating in the deal, which promises to open opportunities for more bankable projects and capital.

The Director, Bilateral Relations Unit in the International Corporation Department, Mr. Samson Ebimaro, extolled the group’s priority areas, saying such sectors are critical to the development of the country; he therefore advised them to declare their costed annual plan so that the Ministry can complement their work and also advise appropriately on government priorities to ensure a sustainable partnership.

While speaking earlier, the Chief Executive Officer, Sterling One Foundation, Olapeju Ibekwe, said the Foundation is an affiliate of Sterling Bank and in collaboration with leading foundations and organizations such as UNIDO Investment Technology Promotion Office, African Venture Philanthropy Alliance, and The Impact Investors Foundation.

She explained that they aim to introduce and seek partnership with the Ministry on propelling economic development, achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and prioritizing impact investments in the Health, Education and Youth Development Sectors and on Climate Action, Food Security, and Gender Equality.

She further revealed that the Foundation also aims at galvanising partnerships between the private sector and the government to address challenges in these vital sectors.

Partners for the deal room include UNIDO Investment Technology Promotion Office, African Venture Philanthropy Alliance, and The Impact Investors Foundation. Sterling One Foundation expresses eagerness to work with the Ministry, aiming to prioritize partnerships across public, private, international, and local sectors for a more focused and impactful approach.