The call comes as the nation prepares for the 32nd Nigerian Economic Summit (NES #32), scheduled for October 26-27, 2026, in Abuja. The summit's theme, “Growth that Works: Delivering Jobs, Productivity and Shared Prosperity,” will explore strategies for subnational growth, regional value chains, and inclusive economic development under the “Scale Nigeria” initiative.
The NESG highlighted that economic activities are currently concentrated in major cities like Lagos, Abuja, Kano, and Port Harcourt. This leaves many states with significant agricultural, mineral, and tourism resources underdeveloped, leading to urban congestion, rural migration, and missed economic opportunities elsewhere.
The group emphasized that all states possess unique economic strengths that, with proper infrastructure, investment, and policies, can contribute to national growth. Examples include Kebbi and Niger for rice, Plateau for horticulture, Cross River for tourism and cocoa, Kano for trade and manufacturing, and Ondo and Delta for solid minerals and timber.
Discussions at the summit will also focus on developing regional value chains by connecting production, processing, transport, and export markets. Improving state-level investment climates through efficient land administration, clear regulations, investor-friendly policies, and better governance is also a key objective. The NESG stressed that infrastructure development, encompassing roads, rail, electricity, digital connectivity, and water supply, is crucial for balanced economic growth.
The NESG views the summit as a vital platform for building consensus and formulating policies that will ensure economic growth benefits all regions of the federation.