Lagos Business School and EU Align for Inclusive Development Goals

Lagos: Prof. Olayinka David-West, Dean of Lagos Business School (LBS), highlighted the alignment of the European Union's support for inclusive development with the school's mission during a discussion with Amb. Gautier Mignot, EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS. According to News Agency of Nigeria, David-West emphasized the EU's consistent investment in human capital, governance, health, education, and innovation across Africa, demonstrating its enduring commitment. She underlined the importance of global partnerships in developing leaders capable of thriving in today's interconnected world. David-West stated that LBS acknowledges the significance of understanding both local issues and global forces that impact businesses and economies. She mentioned that international exposure is crucial for broadening students' perspectives and aligning them with digital and global economic shifts. Applauding the EU's emphasis on education and research, she described them as essential for sustainable development in any nation. She further explained that LBS's research, executive training, and policy-focused programs are designed to nurture leaders capable of addressing current and future challenges. Ambassador Mignot expressed that the EU's key interests in Africa include sustainable development, investment, opportunity creation, and job growth. He pointed out the demographic proximity and historical ties between Africa and Europe, noting that developments in one region affect the other. Mignot expressed the EU's desire to deepen economic partnerships with Nigeria and the broader African continent. He stressed that official development assistance alone is insufficient for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and highlighted the need for mobilizing private investments. EU cooperation in Nigeria focuses on sectors such as smart agriculture, health, transport, renewable energy, and the digital economy. Prof. Franklin Ngwu, Director of the Public Sector Initiative at LBS, affirmed the school's commitment to prom oting sustainable leadership across various sectors. Ngwu mentioned that the ambassador identified numerous collaborative opportunities, which LBS is prepared to explore as a leading academic institution. He noted that LBS would evaluate how best to utilize these opportunities to support national development and public sector transformation, aligning with EU priorities. Mrs. Nsima Ogedi-Alakwe, Chief Marketing Officer at LBS, reiterated the school's dedication to grooming responsible leaders for Africa's advancement, reflecting LBS's active vision for the continent's growth through such engagements.