
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has positioned the country as a leader in Africa’s economic transformation. He opened the 2025 Africa Social Impact and Investment Forum (ASIF) in Abuja with a strong call for inclusive growth and strategic partnerships.
In his keynote address, Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to driving social impact investments and sustainable development. He urged both public and private sectors to focus on innovation that puts people first and delivers both economic and social benefits.
“Social impact investing is not just about profit. It’s about empowering communities and creating lasting value,” President Tinubu said. Speaking to a gathering of African policymakers, global investors, and civil society groups, he added, “Africa’s future depends on the partnerships we build today.”
He pointed to Nigeria’s large domestic market and growing youth population as key assets for regional progress. Tinubu pledged that Nigeria would continue leading by example through policies that support inclusive business growth.
ASIF 2025 is themed “Reimagining Africa’s Economic Future through Impact Investing.” The forum focuses on using capital to drive both social and economic development across Africa. Tinubu praised the platform for connecting local opportunities with global capital. He said this aligns with Nigeria’s push for innovation-led growth.
“Nigeria is building frameworks that support impact-driven investments,” he said. These frameworks target key sectors such as health, education, technology, and agriculture. He also urged African leaders to unite and advocate for reforms that attract meaningful global partnerships.The president called for action beyond dialogue. He encouraged participants to ensure the forum’s conversations lead to measurable results.
Wale Edun, Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, backed the president’s message. He said the administration remains focused on people-centered development. According to Edun, Nigeria has made progress in creating an environment where local and foreign investors can thrive.
ASIF 2025 drew a wide range of stakeholders from across the continent and beyond. The forum reaffirmed its role as a critical space for shaping Africa’s development agenda. Tinubu’s participation also signaled his intent to keep Nigeria at the forefront of sustainable and inclusive economic growth in Africa.