By Peter Akpah.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), *Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe*, has said the economic reforms of President *Bola Ahmed Tinubu* are restoring investor confidence and positioning Nigeria on the path to a $1 trillion economy.

Prof. Nentawe spoke on Thursday in Jos during _Colloquium 2.0_, an event organized by Plateau youths to commemorate his 58th birthday. The colloquium, themed _“Catalyzing Nigeria’s Journey to a 1 Trillion Dollar Economy,”_ was held at Crispan Hotel, Jos.Professor Nentawe said “Reforms Are Bold and Necessary” and that’s what president Tinubu is doing.The APC National Chairman described the Tinubu administration’s reforms as bold decisions that previous governments considered but lacked the political will to implement.He said Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product had grown from less than $300 billion to approximately $375 billion in the last two years, with economic growth now outpacing population growth for the first time in years.“For the first time, our exports have exceeded our imports. Investors are returning to Nigeria because confidence has returned. The productive economy we have long desired is beginning to emerge,” Nentawe stated.He attributed the progress to strategic investments in deep seaports, railways, highways and inland dry ports, which he said are reducing the cost of doing business and strengthening Nigeria’s role as the economic hub of West and Central Africa.“President Tinubu has a master plan. He is not building for today alone; he is building a future that our children and grandchildren will inherit,” he added.Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, represented by Deputy Governor Mrs. Josephine Piyo, described Prof. Nentawe as an exemplary technocrat whose leadership inspires young Nigerians. He said sustainable prosperity in Plateau would depend on investments in education, technology, innovation and leadership development.Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, represented by Minister of Steel Development, *Prince Shuaibu Abubakar Audu*, said Nentawe had strengthened the APC and expanded its membership to over 15 million, making it the largest political party in Africa.
Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel*l, also described the APC Chairman as a symbol of merit-based leadership.
Delivering the keynote, Prof. Dung Pam Sha of the University of Jos said Nigeria must sustain 10-12% annual growth to attain a $1 trillion economy by 2030. He urged accelerated industrialization, agricultural productivity, and human capital development.
Personal Reflection and Commitment to Service
Reflecting on his journey, Prof. Nentawe expressed gratitude to Plateau people and party leaders for their support during the 2023 governorship election, saying it laid the foundation for his national leadership.
“I never imagined young men and women would celebrate the son of a pastor and a farmer like this. My story is proof that destiny can lift anyone regardless of background,” he said.
He reaffirmed his commitment as the President’s “chief campaigner” to mobilize support for the APC ahead of 2027.
As part of his birthday activities, the APC Chairman announced a three-week nationwide medical outreach for vulnerable Nigerians beginning Monday.
The event, convened by *Comrade Gaknung Seri*, also featured a panel discussion with the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, *Dr. Bernard Doro*, Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, *Dr. Jumoke Oduwale*, and other technocrats. Cash awards were presented to teachers who mentored Prof. Nentawe and to distinguished Nigerians.
The colloquium drew academics, political leaders, youth groups, and captains of industry from across the country.



