The Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has called for consistency in Nigeria’s policies, regardless of changes in leadership.
Speaking to a gathering of lawyers at the Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos on Sunday, she emphasized the importance of maintaining sound economic and social policies across administrations, coupled with further reforms to foster progress.
Okonjo-Iweala, a globally renowned development economist known for her signature African print Ankara outfits and distinctively angled headgear, delivered a keynote address titled “A Social Contract for Nigeria’s Future” at the opening of the 2024 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference.
The former Nigerian finance minister criticized the “not-in-my-administration syndrome” in governance, which she said has contributed to the country’s less-than-ideal economic performance.
She emphasized the need for a social contract in Nigeria, urging all Nigerians, regardless of political or other affiliations, to come together in agreement on this framework.
The development economist stressed that certain fundamental policies should remain untouchable, even when there is a change in administration. She suggested that these policies be enshrined into law, following thorough public scrutiny.
Okonjo-Iweala also highlighted that preserving policy consistency, while introducing further reforms, would guide the country toward the good governance that everyone aspires to achieve.