‌‌Annual Development Forum

‌ ‌If we want change, then we must work constantly towards creating a world where voices come together to share knowledge, seek out new ideas, and make decisions on how to better the lives of people.

‌The Annual Development Forum has been a cornerstone for over a decade, with each session consistently delivering impactful discussions and positive solutions.

‌The LAPO Annual Development Forum

‌Launched in 1994, the LAPO Annual Development Forum was established to provide a platform for addressing the pressing challenges of poverty, inequality, and sustainable development in Nigeria. The forum brings together experts, policymakers, and key stakeholders to share knowledge and solutions for promoting inclusive, long-term development.

 The inaugural forum, held in 1994, centered around the theme “The Nigerian Economy and the Poor: 1984-1994.” The discussions highlighted our belief that sustainable poverty alleviation must extend beyond charity, focusing on strengthening the income capacity of the poor. Since then, the forum has continued to explore a wide range of critical issues.

 Notable figures who have contributed to the forum include former Heads of State and Presidents, such as Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Olusegun Obasanjo, and Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, as well as Anambra State Governor Prof. Charles Soludo and Hon. Justice Samson O. Uwaifo, CON, JSC (Rtd), who have served as chairmen or keynote speakers at past editions.

Our objectives

‌Provide a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing on development issues
‌Identify and promote innovative solutions to poverty and inequality
‌‌Influence policy and practice in support of sustainable development
‌‌‌Empower marginalized communities and promote social justice

‌Key outcomes

‌‌‌The forum produces a comprehensive, publicly shared report that includes presentations, discussions, key conclusions, and actionable recommendations aimed at driving sustainable socio-economic transformation in Nigeria.
‌‌The implementation of both new and existing policies plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth and development of the Nigerian healthcare sector.

‌‌‌Key achievements

‌‌‌‌Over 25 years of consistent advocacy and knowledge sharing
‌‌‌Contributed to policy reforms and programme initiatives in poverty reduction, health, education, and economic empowerment
‌‌‌‌‌Provided a platform for marginalized communities to voice their concerns and demand action
‌‌‌‌‌Facilitated partnerships and collaborations among stakeholders for sustainable development.
‌‌‌‌‌Ideas generated from previous editions of the Forum have improved the programme focus and delivery methodology of development organizations including LAPO.

‌‌‌‌Impact as a tool for advocacy

‌‌‌‌‌Influenced policy decisions and programme initiatives at national and state levels
‌‌‌‌Amplified the voices of marginalized communities and promoted social justice
‌‌‌‌‌‌Contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria
‌‌‌‌‌‌Provided a platform for knowledge sharing and innovation in development practice