13 May 2014 The 24th World Economic Forum on Africa has come to a successful end. The forum which held in Abuja, Nigeria recorded one of the highest numbers of delegates in its history. This year’s theme was Forging Inclusive growth, creating jobs and saw over 1000 participants from other 70 countries in attendance.
One after the other, delegates and speakers pledged their support to Nigeria, especially in light of its fight against terrorism, with particular emphasis on the missing girls of Chibok. Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, Prof. Klaus Schwab, kicked off the special addresses by asking participants to observe a one minute silence to identify with the plight of the kidnapped girls. He said Africa’s growth had come to stay and that the continent’s agenda cannot be dictated by terrorists.
President of Nigeria Goodluck Jonathan in his special address, expressed his appreciation for al delegates at the forum, adding that their presence was a strong indicator of the fact that Nigeria would eventually win the war against terrorism.
Quick breakdown of delegates in numbers; this forum saw over 600 business leaders from more than 25 business sectors and over 100 public figures including 13 heads of government. There were also more than 180 women leaders present and more than 70 academic and media leaders.