President Bola Tinubu and the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, have called for patriotism, accountability and inclusive partnerships to accelerate Nigeria’s sustainable development.
They stressed the need for stronger collaboration between the government and civil society and community-based organisations.
President Tinubu made the appeal during the National Summit of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) held in Lagos on Wednesday.
Speaking at the event, the President, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described the theme of the summit, “Nigeria First and Sustainable Development”, as both timely and significant.
President Tinubu stressed that national interest must remain the guiding principle for policies, partnerships and public investments.
He said the ‘Nigeria First’ philosophy does not imply isolationism but rather a commitment to ensuring that every government policy and development initiative prioritises the welfare of Nigerians while promoting inclusive, climate-resilient and future-focused development through purposeful leadership.
The President noted that the summit aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on economic reforms, national security, food security, infrastructure development, improved healthcare and education, industrialisation, and effective governance.
He identified agriculture, the blue economy, renewable energy and environmental sustainability as key sectors where stronger partnerships between government and civil society could drive economic growth and improve livelihoods.
While reaffirming the government’s commitment to working with civil society across the federation, President Tinubu cautioned organisations against undue foreign influence, urging them to ensure that national interest remains the overriding consideration in accepting external funding.
