At the 2024 Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS), Sterling One Foundation and other partners emphasized the need for greater collaboration between the private and public sectors to boost investment in key areas for national development.
Olapeju Ibekwe, CEO of Sterling One Foundation, highlighted that over N3 billion has been invested to revitalize 50 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) nationwide through a partnership between MTN Foundation and the Private Sector Health Alliance of Nigeria (PSHAN).
Speaking at the summit, Ibekwe stated, “One example of significant investment is the partnership between MTN Foundation and PSHAN. Since the last summit in 2023, more than N3 billion has been invested into over 50 PHCs across Nigeria. Another notable investment involves startups, which have received $1 million. These are just a couple of examples among many.”
She stressed the need for increased collaboration among private sector partners, the public sector, and summit participants.
Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank Plc, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We need more collaboration to strengthen our nation. Initially, we funded this summit alone, but now many have joined in. There are opportunities for everyone in business and the economy, and we’ve seen how efficient it can be when it works well. In terms of social impact, many efforts remain isolated.”
Weert Borner, German Consul General in Lagos, acknowledged the challenges in achieving the Social Development Goals (SDGs) but affirmed Germany’s dedication to these goals. He noted the presence of German companies in Nigeria and expressed a desire for more collaboration to boost investment in the country.
