BY IZUCHUKWU Adichie
The election of Soludo as the vice-chairman of the Southern Governor’s Forum has set off a wave of interest in Nigeria, and for good reason. His impressive background, including becoming a Professor of Economics at the age of 38 and gaining extensive international experience in 45 countries while consulting for 21 international financial and development institutions worldwide, speaks volumes about his capabilities. His contributions to Nigeria, such as serving as the chief economic adviser to President Olusegun Obasanjo and later as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, where he co-founded and chaired the Africa Finance Corporation, demonstrate his exceptional leadership and expertise.
Throughout his career, Soludo has consistently risen to the occasion during tough times, making a tangible impact. From designing the NEEDS agenda, which formed the basis for Nigeria’s debt relief and other reform and development milestones, to spearheading the banking sector consolidation – a feat unprecedented in the world – Soludo has proven himself to be an extraordinary leader. His accolades as the Central banker number one in the world by the Financial Times in 2006, 2007, 2008 and his role as a member of the United Nations team to rescue the world’s financial system, further attest to his remarkable achievements. The evidence is clear and irrefutable.
Soludo’s dedication to fostering collaboration and national unity embodies a partnership spirit that knows no bounds. He is resolutely focused on bolstering national resilience and democratic sustainability, advancing the cause of peaceful, self-reliant nations capable of becoming robust economic and democratic allies, adequately equipped to address shared challenges.
In furtherance of these goals, Soludo’s election into the Southern Governors’ Forum signals a forward march in fostering a spirit of partnership with the Southeast, SouthSouth, and Southwest regions to tackle regional issues, formulate strategies to drive economic growth, and promote stability. Through this concerted effort, Southern Nigeria will confront existing negative trends and pave the way for new models of comprehensive cooperation founded on mutual accountability and enduring stability.