By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja.
Dr.Danjuma Mahmud(far right).
The Institute of Chartered Economists of Nigeria (ICEN), Kogi State Chapter, has pledged to deepen its contribution to Nigeria’s economic reforms and support the state government in its efforts to stabilize and diversify the economy.
Dr.Danjuma Mahmud,in the middle, flanked by some members of ABU Alumni Association,Kogi State branch
Speaking during the second inauguration of the chapter’s executives in Lokoja on Saturday, the newly elected Chairman, Dr. Danjuma Mahmud, underscored the critical role of professional economists in shaping policy and guiding development at a time when Nigeria faces mounting economic challenges.
Dr. Mahmud, who is the Secretary General,World Wide,ABU Alumni Association,thanked Allah for the grace to witness what he described as a historic moment, praised the foundation laid by his predecessor, Dr. Nasir Ichanyi.
He assured members that the new leadership would sustain the chapter’s growth trajectory with “zeal and determination.”
Tracing the institute’s origins, he recalled that ICEN was established in Kaduna in 1998 under the Companies and Allied Matters Act, 1990, to professionalize and regulate the practice of economics in Nigeria.
“Before its formation, there was no independent professional body to regulate the conduct and activities of economists in the country,” he said.
The new chairman expressed delight that the institute has since grown into a respected platform that promotes excellence in economic practice across public, private, and academic sectors.
Highlighting the benefits of membership, Dr. Mahmud noted that ICEN grants professional recognition through designations such as Associate Chartered Economist (ACE) and Fellow Chartered Economist (FCE), as well as practicing certificates that allow members to operate as “Chartered Consultants.”
These, he said, not only enhance career prospects but also positions economists to play a pivotal role in national development.
On Nigeria’s economic realities, the new ICEN boss pointed out that the country is at a critical juncture marked by inflation, exchange rate volatility, and the urgent need to diversify away from oil dependence, emphasizing that these challenges make the expertise of professional economists indispensable.
“The future of ICEN is one of relevance and potential growth, driven by the nation’s complex and evolving economic landscape As the Kogi State Government focuses on economic stabilization and reform, our members are uniquely positioned to provide the analytical skills needed to evaluate, implement, and monitor these complex policies,”he said.
Dr. Mahmud called on members to remain proactive and committed to offering professional expertise that can help salvage the nation from its current economic difficulties.
To the newly inaugurated executives, he described their roles as a “clarion call” to raise the chapter’s profile through active engagement with both state and federal governments.
He also commended the Group Director General/CEO of ICEN, Prof. Christopher Ominyofe Balogun, for steering the institute to its current heights.
He also expressed gratitude to Dr. Nasir Ichanyi, the immediate past chairman and Special Adviser to the Kogi State Governor on Internally Generated Revenue, for his foundational contributions to the chapter.
The chairman further acknowledged the resilience of the State Coordinator, Mal. Shaibu Imam Hussein, and the efforts of the Local Organising Committee led by Alhaji Usman Yunusa Asuku in ensuring the success of the inauguration despite limited resources.
“Distinguished guests, ladies, and gentlemen, we are grateful for your support, your encouragement, and the confidence you have reposed in us to pilot the affairs of the institute in the state,” he said in his closing remarks.
Our correspondent reports that the event, held at the Local Government Service Commission Conference Hall, Lokoja, was attended by economists, professionals, government officials, and stakeholders from across the state.
