Yusuf Maitama Sule University Hosts 7th Annual Conference on Nigeria’s Economic Challenges

The Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano (YUMSUK) hosted its 7th Annual Conference on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at the Professor Hafiz Abubakar Auditorium, City Campus.

The event, themed *"Navigating Nigeria's Economic Uncertainty: Exploring Alternative Pathways to Growth,"* brought together experts from across the country to discuss Nigeria's economic challenges and propose actionable solutions.  

Dr. Nura A. Yaro, the Dean, Faculty of Social and Management Sciences, welcomed participants to the conference, emphasizing the importance of the theme in addressing the current realities of Nigeria’s economic landscape. He expressed optimism that the deliberations would lead to meaningful recommendations for policymakers and stakeholders.  

The conference was declared open by Alhaji Kassim Musa Bichi, OON, a distinguished economist and Chairman of the occasion. In his opening remarks, Alhaji Bichi commended the organizers for selecting a topic of national importance, adding that such initiatives are crucial for addressing economic instability and fostering sustainable development.  

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Professor Mukhtar Atiku Kurawa, was the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Administration), Professor Abubakar Salisu Garba. In his speech, Professor Garba highlighted YUMSUK’s achievements, including its rising national rankings and recent accreditations. He also announced that the National Universities Commission (NUC) had granted approval for the university to commence part-time degree programs in eight disciplines. These include:  

- B.A. Islamic Studies 

- B.A. International Studies 

- B.Sc. Ed. Chemistry  

- B.Sc. Ed. Biology  

- B.Sc. Economics  

- B.Sc. Accounting  

- B.Sc. Computer Science 

- B.Sc. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)  

The commencement date for these programs will be determined by the university’s Senate in due course.  

A highlight of the event was the speech by His Royal Highness, Emir of Kano, Dr. Muhammadu Sanusi II, who served as the Royal Father of the Day. Emir Sanusi, a former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and a renowned economist, delivered a critical assessment of Nigeria's economic situation. He attributed the current challenges to mismanagement and the lack of strong institutional leadership, asserting that Nigeria must focus on building resilient institutions and prioritizing competent leadership.  

“There is a critical need for strong institutions led by capable individuals,” Emir Sanusi stated. He stressed that many of the nation’s economic challenges, including inflation and fiscal instability, were predictable and could have been mitigated through better governance. He also called for a shift toward data-driven decision-making and policies that prioritize education, infrastructure development, and fiscal responsibility.  

The keynote address was delivered by Professor Ummu Ahmad Jalingo of Bayero University Kano, who spoke on *"Global Economic Trends: Implications for Nigeria."* Her presentation provided an in-depth analysis of global economic dynamics and their impact on Nigeria, highlighting strategies for adapting to external economic shocks.  

Professor Badawi M. Sani, also from Bayero University Kano, presented the lead paper on *"Navigating Nigeria's Economic Uncertainty: Exploring Pathways to Sustainable Growth."* His presentation explored the need for economic diversification, innovation, and institutional reforms as pathways to stability.  

Representing the Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Honorable Commissioner for Higher Education, Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim Kofar Mata, conveyed the governor's commitment to revitalizing Kano’s economy. He detailed ongoing efforts, including international collaborations on scholarships and capacity-building initiatives aimed at improving the state’s educational infrastructure.  

Following the opening session, participants proceeded to thematic discussions across various halls at the City Campus. These sessions focused on specific aspects of the conference theme, offering detailed insights and practical solutions for Nigeria’s economic challenges.  

The opening ceremony of the conference concluded on a positive note, with attendees expressing optimism that the ideas shared would contribute to addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges. The event further reinforced Yusuf Maitama Sule University Kano’s commitment to driving meaningful dialogue on national development.