The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, has assured that the economy will bounce back. He also saluted citizens for their steadfastness; in spite of difficult economic times.

Tinubu gave the assurance, while flagging off the two-day Green Economy Summit, with the theme, ‘Sustainable Future: Harnessing Green Assets and Innovation for Niger State’s Prosperity’, organised by the Niger State Government, in Minna.

The President also pledged support for the state governor, Mohammed Bago’s Green Economy initiative, aimed at unlocking mineral resources across the state.

Tinubu, who was represented by Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, Abdullahi Sabi, gave insight into the new solid minerals development policy approved during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, held on Monday.

He said: “This policy will definitely align with and benefit the green economy that you have envisioned for Niger State because the policy emphasises removing all forms of illegality, desecrating and destroying our environment. It also intends to ensure a new principle of resource-use efficiency.”

“I want to assure you that the President’s commitment to the enthronement of the green economy over the next couple of years, will find favour with the green economy vision you have for Niger State.”

In his address, Bago said: “We are using this summit to present a draft to stakeholders for their review and input. This blueprint is a comprehensive guide that details our vision, objectives, strategies, and actions, designed to transform our state into a beacon of green prosperity that is environmentally sustainable, socially inclusive, and economically robust.”

Former Head of State, General Abubakar Abdulsalami applauded Bago for providing quality leadership since he assumed office, stressing: “We need to do something to go back to a green economy.”

This came as private sector players urged the Federal Government to rethink strategy towards realising the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Chief Executive Officer of Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Dr. Tayo Aduloju, said the government should commit to specifics, in terms of interventions towards meeting the goals.

He stated this, yesterday, in Abuja, at an inter-ministerial session with the theme, ‘Half Point to 2030: Rethinking Strategy towards Achieving the SDGs’.