BPSR Director Highlights Green Economy for Sustainable Development at Seminar Series Opening Address

- September 07, 2024

~~Aliyu Umar Aliyu

The Director-General of the Bureau of Public Service Reforms (BPSR) delivered an opening remarks at the BPSR Lunchtime Seminar series on the topic "Harnessing Green Economy Initiative for Sustainable Development" held at the main auditorium of the Federal Ministry of Finance in Abuja on the 5th of September, 2024.

During his speech, the Director-General highlighted the crucial role of BPSR in driving integrated reform initiatives across the public sector since its establishment in 2004. The bureau has been instrumental in coordinating and harmonizing reform efforts, leveraging both local and international knowledge networks to support policy, institutional, and governance reforms.

The theme of the seminar, "Harnessing Green Economy Initiatives for Sustainable Development" was emphasized as timely and critical to development, as it focuses on generating energy in various ways while reducing environmental hazards in the nation. The concept of green economy was discussed, emphasizing its importance in achieving a balance between economic growth, environmental sustainability, and social equity.

The Director-General also acknowledged the presence of the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as the guest speaker for the event. The SEC has been at the forefront of promoting sustainable finance and investment practices that align with the principles of green economy, including the growth of green bonds and other sustainable financial instruments.

The objectives of the seminar were outlined, including environmental sustainability, economic diversification, social development, energy security, resilience to economic shocks, and international standing and cooperation. The importance of transitioning to a green economy in Nigeria was highlighted, with a focus on benefits such as climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, green job creation, improved public health, poverty reduction, and enhanced global leadership.

The Director-General expressed gratitude to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation for his support in organizing the event and thanked the Director-General of SEC for addressing the audience on the topic of green economy. He encouraged active participation, sharing of thoughts, and asking questions to deepen understanding and explore actionable strategies for implementing green economy initiatives across various sectors of the economy.

In conclusion, the Director-General expressed optimism for a fruitful and impactful discussion during the seminar, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between BPSR and SEC in aligning policies, building capacity, fostering public-private partnerships, and monitoring and evaluating green finance initiatives to support sustainable development in Nigeria.