Hamzat Felicitates TBG, Advocates Stronger Public-Private Partnership

Dr. Kadir Obafemi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State and candidate for the APC gubernatorial seat, has congratulated the Thursday Business Group (TBG) on its 10th anniversary. Hamzat praised TBG's vision and contributions to business development, while advocating for stronger public-private partnerships to speed up Nigeria's economic revival.

At the Group's Founders' Day Dinner and Awards held in Lagos, Hamzat emphasized that enterprise is the key driver of economic growth and that government should focus on providing an enabling environment for businesses to flourish through consistent policies, infrastructure development, transparent taxation, and improved access to finance.

He noted that government's role should be to partner with businesses, enabling them to generate the prosperity desired. Hamzat stated that tax payment is a civic responsibility and an essential aspect of nation-building, expressing concern over multiple taxation. He argued that government must demonstrate accountability by translating tax revenues into tangible benefits, such as infrastructure, power, security, and essential social services.

Describing tax as a subscription fee for civilization, Hamzat highlighted his vision for Lagos, including doubling annual investment from N1 trillion to N5 trillion by 2031, supporting the growth of over one million MSMEs, establishing four industrial parks, and expanding access to finance via a proposed N10 billion LASMECO facility.

Former Governor of Lagos State and former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Raji Fashola, praised TBG for creating a platform for constructive business discussions and collective prosperity over the past decade. He emphasized the link between taxation and democratic accountability, urging TBG to focus on innovation and leadership in the next decade.

TBG Governor, Honourable Femi Adeyeye, acknowledged the organization's founders, trustees, past governors, and members for their contributions to building the group over the last ten years. He looked forward to the next decade being marked by greater collaboration, stronger businesses, and lasting impact. TBG also recognized entrepreneurs through an enterprise development intervention by the Kajola Foundation, which awarded N10 million to 14 recipients of its Enterprise Bootcamp to enhance their businesses, improve productivity, and promote sustainable growth.