Nigeria finds itself at a critical moment, as the short- to medium-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic begin to become clearer. Bold decisions and action are required to improve outcomes for the citizens of Africa’s most populous country.
With expected GDP growth of 1.5 per cent in 2021, compounded by the economic stagnation the country faced prior to the pandemic, deep seated reforms are essential to tackle underdevelopment, joblessness and climate-related threats if the government is to meet its ambition of lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030.
The last year has also seen the widening and deepening of insecurity across the country. Citizens remain in need of protection from and lasting solutions to the ever-present threats of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and intercommunal violence. An effective and accountable security sector is vital as the federal and state governments strive for stability post-COVID-19.
At this event, HE Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, discusses the significant challenges posed to Nigeria by the pandemic, insecurity, environmental stresses and the oil price crash of 2020, and how the government can bring about the structural change and efficiency required for lasting socio-economic recovery and development.
Participants
HE Professor Yemi Osinbajo, Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria
Chair: Dr Renata Dwan, Deputy Director and Senior Executive Officer, Chatham House