Priotise Sustainable Development Over Chasing Quick Gains, Nigerians Urged

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

Nasarawa State Attorney General, Labaran Magaji has said that there was a need for Nigerians to prioritise sustainable development over chasing quick gains.

Magaji who made this known on Sunday at the 10th edition Megastar Magazine Awards ceremony held in Abuja, highlighted the state’s grassroots initiatives, including a national model skills acquisition center.

According to him, Social investment is essential for job creation and economic growth. We must prioritise sustainable development over chasing quick gains.

Speaking at the event, The publisher of Megastar Magazine, Adeniyi Ifetayo, said the award recognised individuals, organisations, and government agencies for their outstanding contributions to community development and national progress over the past decade.

He called on Nigerians to embrace social entrepreneurship as a catalyst for community development.

Ifetayo stated: “Social enterprises go beyond profit making. They aim to achieve social or environmental goals while uplifting marginalized groups.”

Some of the initiatives championed by Ifetayo included providing improved learning environments for over 200 pupils at LEA Primary School in Dutse Sokale and constructing modern restroom facilities for 2,000 students at Junior Secondary School, Dutse Alhaji Sokale, Abuja.

He noted: “This is a reminder that small efforts can lead to significant change,” he said, while urging the attendees to contribute to community development, regardless of their status.

Ifetayo recalled that the first ceremony was held in Shagamu and it focused on promoting creativity in fashion and music.

“Since then, the initiative has expanded to include various social impact projects, such as funding school fees and addressing public health crises like cholera outbreaks,” he said.

This year’s recipients included the Pacesetter Group of Schools for their commitment to education and Indomie for its positive impact on Nigerian households.

The event also featured notable speakers, including Dele Momodu of Ovation International, who advocated for sustainable social enterprise.

“By ensuring we take care of our children, we address insecurity at its root. Instant wealth often overshadows sustainable growth. Humble beginnings, like mine as a library attendant and errand boy, are the building blocks of a stable society,” Momodu noted.