By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, has said the country’s economic future depends on leadership that listens, learns and delivers results for its citizens.
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja at the Oxford Global Think Tank Leadership Conference themed “Better Leadership for a Better Nigeria,” Edun emphasized that responsible and visionary leadership remains central to sustaining reforms and driving inclusive growth.
“Our economic future rests on leadership that listens, learns and leads with purpose, ensuring that every reform delivers growth and opportunity,” the minister said, while commending Ms. Arumah Oteh for convening a platform that invests in the next generation of Nigerian leaders.
Highlighting ongoing reform initiatives, Edun cited the government’s digital cash transfer programme reaching 8.1 million Nigerians, with a target of 15 million, and the Ward-Based Development Programme, which supports small businesses and productivity across more than 8,000 wards nationwide. He said these efforts show how leadership guided by empathy and accountability can translate policy into tangible impact.
Reaffirming the administration’s focus on macroeconomic stability, fiscal transparency and inclusive development, Edun added that with responsible leadership and continued reform, Nigeria is well positioned for sustainable growth that benefits citizens and strengthens private sector confidence. He congratulated Oteh and the Oxford Global Think Tank for fostering dialogue that, he said, will shape a more resilient and prosperous Nigeria.
