Okonjo-Iweala: Leadership Key to Nigeria's Economic Success

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), stated that Nigeria's economic future relies more on leadership quality than on its natural resources.

During a discussion with Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), at the 7th Africa Emerging Markets Forum in Abuja, she stressed that economic reforms must lead to job creation and tangible benefits for the populace.

Okonjo-Iweala noted that effective governance could account for about 75% of the country's success. She urged leaders to focus on implementation and create opportunities for young Nigerians to remain in the country.

Furthermore, she emphasized the role of citizens in demanding accountability and integrity from their leaders. While commending the CBN's reforms, she cautioned that their success would be judged by their impact on everyday lives, stating that public support would wane if citizens do not feel the benefits of these reforms.