Uwaleke Advocates Coordinated Strategy To Drive Inclusive Growth

President of the Association of Capital Market Academics of Nigeria (ACMAN), Prof. Uche Uwaleke, has called for a deliberate and coordinated national strategy that strengthens institutions, fosters innovation, and accelerates digital inclusion, warning that Nigeria’s development goals will remain elusive without such reforms.

He stressed that inclusive and sustainable economic growth requires holistic action anchored on innovation, governance reforms, and digital transformation.

Uwaleke, who is also a professor of Capital Market at Nasarawa State University, Keffi, noted that Nigeria must prioritise institutional reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and regulatory consistency.

According to him, without improving contract enforcement, protecting intellectual property rights, and addressing corruption, inclusive growth will remain out of reach.

He emphasised the importance of expanding investment in digital infrastructure, particularly through public-private partnerships, to improve broadband penetration in underserved rural areas.

He also advocated subsidising data access for disadvantaged groups and implementing nationwide digital literacy programmes, especially targeting women, youths, and rural populations.

“The real sectors such as agriculture and manufacturing should be made to thrive via significant investments. At the same time, Nigeria’s path toward inclusive and sustainable development requires strong institutions and an unwavering commitment to innovation and digital transformation,” Uwaleke said.

He further recommended that the government promote renewable energy solutions to tackle power supply challenges, while also increasing funding for research and development.

Incentivising collaboration between universities and industries, he said, would foster affordable, resource-efficient innovations tailored to Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.

Highlighting the role of global and regional partnerships, Uwaleke urged Nigeria to maximise opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and tap into global climate financing to diversify the economy and enhance competitiveness.

According to him, a well-coordinated strategy will not only unlock the country’s economic potential but also transform its demographic dividend and abundant resources into shared prosperity for all Nigerians.

“Indeed, if pursued strategically, these pillars can unlock Nigeria’s full potential, positioning the country as a hub for innovation-driven growth,” he added.

The forum, which brought together academics, policymakers, and industry players, focused on exploring pathways for economic development through innovation and good governance.