Across the world, nations seeking economic transformation are increasingly recognising that natural resources and ambitious policies alone cannot guarantee prosperity. From Asia’s industrial economies to emerging African markets, sustainable development depends on innovation, effective institutions, private investment and the ability to translate ideas into measurable results.

This global challenge formed the foundation of The New Nigeria Festival, held at the Shehu Musa Yar’Adua Centre, Abuja, under the theme “Great Ideas, Bold Execution.”

Jide Paul Peters

At the heart of the initiative is its Executive Producer and Project Coordinator, Paul Jide Peters, whose vision extends beyond organising another national conference. Peters described the festival as a platform connecting Nigeria’s enormous human and entrepreneurial potential with the investment, leadership and partnerships required for meaningful economic transformation. Through Bullion Strategic Synergy Limited, he hopes to establish a lasting international platform where innovators, policymakers, investors and the Nigerian diaspora can move beyond discussions to practical economic opportunities.

The two-day gathering brought together government officials, business leaders, innovators and development stakeholders to examine practical pathways towards Nigeria’s ambition of building a $1 trillion economy by 2030.

DG VON

Representing the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace, emphasised the importance of promoting Nigeria’s achievements and strengthening the country’s international reputation.

The minister highlighted opportunities in technology, manufacturing, digital services and the creative economy, encouraging young Nigerians to transform their capabilities into enterprises and employment opportunities.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, reaffirmed the Nigeria Customs Service’s commitment to the country’s economic ambitions through trade facilitation, revenue mobilisation and improved border management.

His presentation drew attention to the importance of modernising Customs operations and strengthening institutional efficiency to support international commerce.

Another significant contribution came from Mohammed Abu Ibrahim, Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Development Fund, who challenged young Nigerians to move beyond promising ideas towards entrepreneurship, innovation and productive economic participation.

The international investment dimension was further reflected in discussions on environmental, social and governance standards. Toju Francisco Da-Silva of ESG Management Services stressed the importance of credible governance, transparency and investment readiness in attracting sustainable financing.

For Nigeria, the significance extends beyond speeches and policy announcements. Agriculture, infrastructure, manufacturing, technology and the creative industries offer considerable opportunities for employment, export expansion and diaspora investment.

The summit also reinforced the importance of independent media in connecting government policies with public understanding and international audiences.

BEN Television, an expected participate as a media partner, recognises the wider value of platforms that encourage constructive dialogue, accountability and Nigeria’s engagement with global markets.

Ultimately, the success of such gatherings will be measured not by the number of declarations made, but by partnerships established, businesses supported, investments realised and improvements experienced by ordinary Nigerians.

Nigeria possesses considerable human and economic potential. The challenge remains turning that potential into lasting prosperity through credible leadership, consistent implementation and measurable outcomes.

BEN Television | Bridging the Gap | www.bentelevision.com