Adesina: Nigeria needs welfarist policies to expand opportunities

The President of African Development Bank Group, Akinwumi Adesina, recently emphasized the urgent need for welfarist policies in Nigeria and across Africa to combat poverty, reduce inequalities, and enhance the quality of life for all citizens. Speaking during his acceptance speech of the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for leadership, Adesina highlighted the importance of implementing public-centric policies and fostering private sector wealth creation in key areas such as rural economic transformation and food security. Adesina expressed his deep-rooted commitment to uplifting the lives of people, drawing inspiration from the visionary leadership of Chief Awolowo. He outlined his vision for a prosperous Nigeria and a globally respected Africa, rejecting the notion of Africa being relegated to the bottom of the global economic ladder. Adesina's steadfast belief in the continent's potential and his dedication to eradicating poverty underscored his call for comprehensive policy reforms and sustainable development strategies. Amidst the daunting challenges of rising debt, climate change, and economic vulnerabilities, Adesina called for a collective effort to overcome obstacles and realize a brighter future for Africa. He emphasized the imperative of unleashing Africa's full potential while addressing key areas of focus, including rural economic transformation, healthcare accessibility, education, affordable housing, and government accountability. By prioritizing welfarist policies and fostering inclusive growth, Adesina envisions a transformative shift towards a more prosperous and equitable society, paving the way for a better future for generations to come.