FG can rejuvenate Nigeria’s economy through research, capacity building- Prof Ekpo .Central Banks in West African sub-region to benefit from FERT programmes

FG can rejuvenate Nigeria’s economy through research, capacity building- Prof Ekpo

.Central Banks in West African sub-region to benefit from FERT programmes

.Says FERT to build capacity in Nigeria, Africa

By Udeme Clement

The Executive Chairman, Foundation for Economic Research and Training, FERT, Prof Akpan Ekpo, has said that research and capacity building are essential in creating new ideas and innovation Nigeria needs to rejuvenate its economy.

Ekpo, who is a professor of Economics and immediate past Director General, West African Institute for Financial and Economic Management, WAIFEM, made this known in a chat with Financial Business Correspondent, who visited FERT training centre in Lagos.

The Economics Professor, who has been in the forefront of capacity building in Nigeria and within the West African sub-region, stressed that the Federal Government and other sub-national governments need research and capacity building to enhance productivity in Nigeria’s economy, in order to reposition the economy on the path of sustainable growth.

Responding to questions on the economic benefits of FERT to Nigeria, especially now that the nation’s economy is experiencing slow growth, he said, “FERT has specific objectives to promote the development of technical and entrepreneurial skills to enhance economic empowerment in Nigeria and Africa in general”.

He explained, “The centre is well equipped and has economic experts to provide link between researchers in academia and policy-makers in government, international institutions and other non-governmental organisations through net working in thematic and non-thematic research, as well as publications.

According to him, workers in Nigerian banking sector and Central Banks within the West African sub-region would benefit from FERT programmes as well.

His words, “The centre, as you are seeing right now is adequately equipped to engage in research, capacity building and training, which will emancipate the vulnerable groups in Nigeria, in particular and Africa in general.

“FERT is ready to provide training for policy-makers at all levels, academia, the private sector and other groups through workshops, seminars and symposia.”

Prof. Ekpo pointed out, “Also, FERT would make available recommendations derived from research to appropriate functionaries of government, domestic and international research organisations”.

During the visit, Financial Business correspondent observed that FERT training centre located in a serene environment at Opebi area of Lagos, is well equipped with world class training facilities.

The centre has well furnished training departments from down to the top floor.

 Watch Out !

This is the first part of the report. Watch out for Prof. Ekpo’s comment on re-appointment of Mr. Godwin Emefiele, as Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN.