Nigeria’s dire economic challenges call for visionary leaders who can provide innovative solutions, and Oby Ezekwesili is one of such individuals leading the charge on the global stage. The former Nigerian Minister of Education recently highlighted her involvement in high-level international discussions focused on debt restructuring and sustainable development, underscoring the kind of leadership Nigeria desperately needs to steer the country out of its current crisis.

Taking to her official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Ezekwesili announced her role in the Club de Madrid, the world’s largest forum of former Presidents and Prime Ministers. She revealed that the prestigious forum frequently invites her to contribute her expertise and serve on various Task Teams for key initiatives that address pressing global challenges.
Most recently, Ezekwesili has been actively engaged in Club de Madrid’s Working Group on “From Debt Relief to Development”—a crucial framework aimed at debt restructuring and prevention. As many nations grapple with mounting debt, this initiative provides critical insights into how countries, including Nigeria, can manage and mitigate their debt burdens while prioritizing development.

During the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Ezekwesili participated in an Action Lab on Financing for Sustainable Development, which received and reviewed reports on global financing strategies. The event was hosted by Club de Madrid and brought together a cohort of distinguished world leaders. Ezekwesili joined former President of Slovenia, Danilo Türk, former President of Finland, Dr. Tarja Kaarina Halonen, former Prime Minister of Norway, Kjell Magne Bondevik, and former President of Costa Rica, Carlos Alvarado Quesada.
Her involvement in these critical conversations reaffirms her status as a global thought leader, with the depth of experience and vision to contribute to Nigeria’s much-needed economic and developmental reforms. Ezekwesili’s contributions are a reminder of the caliber of leadership and expertise that could help Nigeria navigate its present economic challenges and move towards sustainable growth.
At a time when the nation is searching for solutions to its myriad crises, Ezekwesili’s global engagements highlight the importance of tapping into experienced, forward-thinking leaders who understand both the complexities of international economics and the specific needs of Nigeria. As she continues to champion causes like debt restructuring and sustainable development, her work reflects a roadmap that could be pivotal in reshaping Nigeria’s economic future.