FG unveils human capital programme to spur economic growth and inclusion

Barbara Bako, Abuja

The Federal Government has launched a major human capital development initiative designed to drive inclusive growth and unlock Nigeria’s vast economic potential.…

The Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equity (HOPE) programme, a World Bank-supported intervention, held its inaugural National Steering Committee meeting in Abuja on Monday.

The meeting was chaired by the Honourable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, and co-chaired by several key members of the Federal Executive Council, including the Ministers of Finance, Education, Health, and Women Affairs.

Speaking at the event, the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, described HOPE as “a transformative platform to unlock Nigeria’s economic potential by strengthening health, education, and governance systems nationwide.”

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He noted that the initiative aligns closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader economic renewal plan.

“The President’s vision is clear: prosperity must be inclusive. No one is to be left behind,” Edun stated.

He called on the remaining states to adopt the programme, highlighting that five states and the Federal Capital Territory are already on board.

Emphasising the urgency of the moment, he cited Africa’s demographic shift, which will see the continent contribute 25% of the global workforce over the next three decades.

The Finance Minister also underscored the importance of the Boreum Plan, of which HOPE is a key component.

He called for its swift passage by the National Assembly before the summer recess, noting that it provides the financial blueprint for delivering state-led, globally-aligned interventions in education, healthcare, and social development.