The Bank of Industry (BoI), manufacturers, private sector leaders, academics and government officials will meet to address Nigeria’s persistent challenge of low productivity.
Mr Segun Adeleye, President, World Stage Ltd., in a statement on Monday in Lagos, described low productivity as one of the biggest challenges confronting Nigeria’s economy.
He observed that although many Nigerians were employed, almost half of the population lived below the national poverty line, with multidimensional poverty reaching 63 per cent.
Adeleye questioned whether the country’s economic transformation was truly generating higher productivity jobs capable of improving living standards.
He disclosed that experts would deliberate on productivity challenges at the WorldStage Economic Summit (WES) 2025, scheduled for Nov. 21 at the Nigerian Exchange Ltd., Event Centre, Lagos.
With the heme :Tackling the Issue of Low Productivity in Nigeria,’ the summit will host thought leaders from diverse economic sectors.
Adeleye said discussions would focus on policies and strategies to enhance national productivity and ensure sustainable economic growth.
He confirmed participants such as Mr Segun Ajayi-Kadir, Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), and Mr Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).
Also expected is Dr Abidemi Adegboye of the University of Lagos, who will present a paper on ‘Why Nigeria’s economy has remained trapped in low productivity.’
Adeleye disclosed that online nominations for the WES 2025 Awards for Outstanding Economic Impacts had closed, and winners had been notified.
He said the awards would be presented during the summit to recognise contributions across various sectors of the economy.
Adeleye explained that WES was designed to address economic challenges through research, dialogue, and practical solutions involving both public and private sectors.
He said the platform would promote innovation and inspire new thinking in business, policymaking, economic reform, and national development.
According to him, key stakeholders in food production, technology, job creation, energy, blue economy, banking, and export promotion are expected at the summit.
Adeleye added that the forum would examine policies to create jobs, reduce poverty, and review the economic impact of frequent public holidays.
He said participants would also explore ways to boost productivity in small-scale farming and non-farm enterprises, among other economic transformation strategies.
“WES remains a hub of opportunity, providing a unique platform for networking, learning, and collaboration among policymakers and industry leaders,” Adeleye said.
