The Sustainable Table Discourse Series represents a platform that not only serves as a convening of minds, it is a pivotal movement for collaboration and innovation as we work to address the challenges and the opportunities that present themselves to us. We are not only here to talk, but we’re here to inspire action and it’s really an opportunity to foster unity and sustainability across Africa. I personally have spent much of my career advocating for economic inclusion, gender equality and bridging Africa’s wealth gap through media, entrepreneurship and international development. I have seen first hand how impactful collective action can be when we’re trying to drive the sustainable development goals. It’s no accident that SDG 17 is about partnerships for the goals.

It is an honor to participate in the Sustainability Table Discourse Series. I commend Avant-Garde Innovation and Technology Services Limited for organizing this impactful event. This program is timely and you would all agree with me because it gives us an opportunity to reflect on our progress towards achieving the SDGs and identify strategies to overcome the challenges hindering our progress in Nigeria. It is also an opportunity for us to focus on how we can work together.

The 8th edition of The Sustainability Table Discourse Series (STS) was a remarkable platform that reinforced the urgency of sustainable development and the pivotal role Lagos plays in driving impactful initiatives. I commend Avant-Garde for its unwavering commitment to advancing the SDGs through practical action and meaningful dialogue. This event continues to serve as a beacon of collaboration, fostering partnerships that align responsible business practices with environmental, social, and governance principles. The launch of the Avant-Garde Sustainability Foundation is a testament to what can be achieved through visionary leadership and collective effort. I look forward to seeing this platform drive further progress in sustainability, both in Lagos and beyond.

Congratulations on the latest edition of the Sustainability Table Discourse. Investing in climate smart agriculture and clean energy efficient technologies, and encouraging apprenticeships, entrepreneurships and self-employment in green jobs, through local, state and federal employment policies and programmes can address youth unemployment, which SDG 8 particularly targets.Building towards a climate resilient circular economy based on regeneration where little is wasted, and new and innovative career opportunities for young people are created.