By Peter Egwuatu
Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) said it is prepared to work with the Federal Government in order to move the economy forward, and asked for speedy implementation of the N50 billion earmarked for job creation in the 2011 budget.

It also asked for the speedy implementation of the privatisation programme especially in the power sector.

Speaking to Vanguard, yesterday, after the inauguration of members of  sub- committee for the forth coming 17th Nigerian Economic Summit to be held this year, Chairman of NESG, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa said, “ we have confidence in the present government to move the economy forward and this is why we are prepared to work closely with them to achieve the desired growth and development of the economy.”

According to him, “ we have confidence in the present government to move the economy forward  because, despite the forth coming election, our President has not been distracted in pursuing economic policies and programmes that would add value to the economy.

“We want the Federal Government to quickly implement the unbundling of the power sector and other sectors that have been  mapped out for privatisation. Once the privatisation of Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN)  is completed we shall begin to see changes in the supply of power and this will have ripple effect on the economy.

“ We also thank the President for appointing Alhaji Aliko Dangote as Chairman for the implementation of job creation. We want the private sector to come out and join hands with the government in moving the economy. We have told the government that employment creation is a key to moving the economy. Once there is employment for the teeming youth, it will lead to further improvement of the economy since it will enhance purchasing power and lead to improvement in the well-being of the people”.

Mr. Albert Okumagba, Chairman of the Planning Committee of NESG, commended the Federal Government for its commitment to work with the private sector in moving the economy forwardAccording to him, “ I commend the Board of NESG for giving me the opportunity to serve as the Chairman of the National Planning Committee for the forth coming summit.

I implore those of us who have been appointed to serve in various committee to come out enmass and contribute ideas to the successful hosting of the coming summit. A lot of activities took place in 2010.

There were series of dialogue in the banking reforms and capital market . This time around we hope to have policy dialogue with the government. The Minister of Finance, Olusegun Aganga has promised to work with us in the private sector. It is our hope that government will quickly implement the job creation as N50 billion has been earmarked in the budget 201I for that purpose This will help propel the economy.

We are going to support that move to create new job in the areas that have been identified such as agriculture, construction etc. We have a government that is ready to cooperate with NESG and private sector, notwithstanding the forth coming election.

“ Therefore, continuing dialogue with the government is a good step that will impact on the economy as  foreign investors will be encouraged to invest in our economy with macroeconomic stability and enhanced infrastructure”.