In the spirit of the Sallah celebration and his continued commitment to supporting the people, Dr. Abdul-Azeez Olajide Adediran (JANDOR) has once again demonstrated his love for his party by distributing over 6,000 bags of rice to All Progressives Congress (APC) party executives from the wards to the State, across the 20 Local Government Areas (LGAs) and 37 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State.
The gesture was part of JANDOR’s long-standing tradition of philanthropy and extension of love to party managers and faithful especially during festive periods.
“His latest intervention reflects his unwavering resolve to prioritize the welfare of the people, fostering a sense of unity and shared prosperity,” a statement by Adediran’s spokesman, Gbenga Ogunleye said on Friday, 28 March, 2025.
Thegazellenews.com had earlier reported that on Monday, 23 December 2024, Dr. Adediran held a Christmas get together at his campaign office where thousands of party faithful were gifted bags of rice and financial support to celebrate the yuletide. Hundreds of political associates who were in attendance were equally provided with gifts in the spirit of the season.
Earlier in July, August and September 2024, JANDOR gifted over 300 political associates cash support and donated five vehicles for hailing business (Uber) to political supporters, set up a block industry for someone in Epe and assisted physical-challenged with an electric wheelchair among several other forms of assistance.
Speaking on the initiative, JANDOR reiterated his belief in the power of community support. “The Sallah celebration is a time for reflection, unity, and sharing with those around us. I remain dedicated to the well-being of the people and will continue to contribute to their progress and happiness,” he stated.
SGF Extends Condolences to Katsina Gov Over Passing of Hajiya Safara’u
The Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum (SGF) and the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has extended deep condolences to his Katsina State counterpart, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda following the recent loss of his mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Baribari.
The State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, representing Governor Abiodun as the Chairman of the SGF, conveyed the Forum’s heartfelt condolences.
In his remarks, the NGF Chairman emphasized the universal nature of grief and the importance of celebrating a life well-lived.
“There is never a good time to lose a parent, but we take solace in the impactful life lived—a legacy that endures in family and society.
“We pray that Almighty Allah accepts her righteous deeds, forgives her shortcomings, and grants her Al-Jannatul Firdaus. May He also grant us all long life in good health, enabling us to leave behind positive legacies for future generations,” he said.
In her separate remarks, the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, Hajia Aisha Rimi, who was on the Ogun State delegation offered special prayers for the late Hajiya Safara’u and extended heartfelt condolences to Governor Radda.
Speaking on behalf of Katsina State Government, the Deputy Governor, Malam Faruk Lawal Jobe, expressed gratitude to the Forum for the visit.
“It is indeed an honour to receive this high-powered delegation from Ogun State. We deeply appreciate the commitment shown by His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun—Governor of Ogun State and Chairman of the Southern Governors’ Forum—in sending such a distinguished team to commiserate with us.
“We are sincerely grateful for the prayers, condolences, and solidarity from the government and good people of Ogun State. Your visit and supplications for our late mother are a great comfort,” Deputy Governor Jobe stated.
Okupe Lived a Life of Impactful Service – Abiodun
The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has described the life and times of the late Dr. Doyin Okupe as a life of impactful service, resilience, and unwavering commitment and dedication to Nigeria, his family, and his faith.
Governor Abiodun also said that the former spokesperson for former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan was extremely cerebral, kind, humble, and generous.
The Governor stated this during the final burial service of Dr. Okupe held at the Wesley Methodist Cathedral, Iperu-Remo, Ogun State.
Noting that Dr. Okupe was very cheerful, smiling, and extremely slow to anger, Governor Abiodun described him as a noble man and a warrior who fought for democracy.
“He was a media guru, articulate, and fearless spokesman. He was a professional in politics and not a professional politician; he was a very reliable, dependable, and principled man.
“He would not change his viewpoint or position because anyone tried to influence him, except out of conviction, out of an inner conviction,” he said.
The Governor said that the late Okupe did not define his personal relationships by his political beliefs, adding that his political beliefs did not ruin his relationships with him or others during his lifetime.
“As dogged a politician as he was, he did not define his personal relationships. He could take a political stance against you, but that would not stop him from having a good friendship with you.
“So, he drew a line between politics and personal relationships,” he said.
Abiodun urged the congregation and the people of the state to live a life of impact by treating other people the way they would want to be treated, adding that it is not only when a person becomes a politician that they can live a life of impact.
Earlier in his message, the Methodist Archbishop of Egba-Yewa and the Archbishop of RIYE, The Most Rev. Adegbemi Atanda Adewale, described the death of Dr. Okupe as a loss and a reminder of the impermanence of life and the importance of living a life that honours God and serves humanity.
The Archbishop charged the congregation and the people of the state to use their talents, time, and gifts to make a positive impact on the world around them, saying that the life of Dr.Okupe was a testament to the truth that those at the helm of affairs, as well as the rich in society, should use their lives to impact the lives of the people around them.
The Most Rev. Adewale noted that the commitment of Dr. Okupe to the welfare of his people and family was evident in his attitude, adding that his legacy will continue to inspire both his children and generations yet unborn.
Some of the dignitaries at the burial service were members of the Ogun State Executive Council, Arc. Yemisi Suswam, former First Lady of Benue State, Hon. Kayode Amusan, Chief Alex Onabanjo, Senator Lekan Mustapha, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Mr. Tunde Rahaman, and former Ogun State Governor Senator Gbenga Daniel, amongst others.
First Lady Reacts To Delta Students’ Controversy, Read Full Statement Here
The attention of the Office of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to a video circulating on social media, showing chants welcoming both the First Lady of Delta State and the First Lady of Nigeria during the Renewed Hope Initiative’s donation of 10,000 professional kits to midwives in the South-south zone held at the Dome Event Centre, Asaba, Delta State, on Tuesday, 25 March, 2025.
The event was primarily to motivate midwives across the nation, with the aim of reducing infant and maternal mortality, and morbidity in Nigeria. Her Excellency deeply appreciates the warm reception by the Delta State Government, the people of Delta State, as well as enthusiasm shown by nurses, midwives, women groups, and student nurses present at the event.
However, a section of the video, allegedly recorded by some students at the event, showed a spontaneous and playful twist to the welcome song. Sequel to that, it has come to our attention that some of the students of the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences have been issued a query regarding their participation in the chants. While the Office of the First Lady of Nigeria respects the right of institutions to uphold discipline, it is important to recognize that students, in moments of excitement, often express themselves in a light-hearted and jovial manner.
The Office of the First Lady believes that educational institutions should foster an environment where students feel safe to express themselves while maintaining decorum. The First Lady’s visit was intended to inspire and uplift healthcare professionals, and it is our hope that this event remains a positive and motivating experience for all involved.
We trust that the Delta State College of Nursing Sciences will handle this matter with understanding and fairness, ensuring that students continue to thrive in an environment that balances discipline with free expression.
Signed:
Busola Kukoyi
SSA Media to the
First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
28th March 2025
Empowering Tomorrow: The Bold Vision of the Nigerian Youth Academy
By Dare Ojepe
Amidst Africa’s vibrant landscape, where the energy of youth is both tangible and inspiring, stands a guiding light of hope and change: the Nigerian Youth Academy. With over 200 million citizens, Nigeria’s burgeoning population of young people is eager to redefine their futures. It is within this dynamic environment that the Nigerian Youth Academy sets forth an ambitious mission: to equip its youth with the skills necessary to thrive as influential contributors in the global economy.
The demands of today’s global economy extend beyond conventional educational models. Proficiency in digital literacy, critical thinking, entrepreneurship, and adaptability has become critical in today’s job markets. In response to this evolution, the Nigerian Youth Academy has adopted a comprehensive strategy for empowering youth by focusing not only on technical expertise but also on developing the soft skills vital for success in modern workplaces.
Central to their mission is a dedication to inclusivity and accessibility. By offering a wide variety of training programs across fields such as technology, engineering, arts, and business, the Academy ensures that every Nigerian youth has an opportunity to succeed, irrespective of their socioeconomic circumstances. This democratization of education is crucial to bridging opportunity gaps and establishing an equitable platform for all young Nigerians.
Furthermore, the Academy’s collaborations with global tech leaders, educational institutions, and international bodies underscore the importance of partnerships in achieving success in our interconnected world. These collaborations expose Nigerian youth to the latest technologies and global best practices while nurturing a culture of innovation and creativity.
Beyond technical skills, the Academy prioritizes nurturing leadership qualities and fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. By inspiring youth not only to seek employment but also to create opportunities, the Academy will be instrumental in transitioning Nigeria from a nation of job seekers to one of job creators. This entrepreneurial mindset is reinforced by a strong mentorship program that connects young talent with industry leaders, offering invaluable guidance and insight.
The story of the Nigerian Youth Academy is one of hope, resilience, and transformation. In a nation where the youth are the key to a prosperous future, the Academy will function as both a talent incubator and a change catalyst. As these young Nigerians join the global economy, they bring with them not only their acquired skills but also the bold ambition to reshape their world.
Through its visionary efforts, the Nigerian Youth Academy will not only empower individuals but will also revitalize communities and inspire the nation. By doing so, it ensures that the brightest days for Nigeria’s youth are being shaped today. This is far more than an educational initiative; it is a movement that turns potential into empowerment, ambition into action, and dreams into reality. The world should take notice because the rise of Nigeria’s youth represents not just a local development but a global phenomenon.
The Nigerian Youth Academy represents an innovative blueprint for developmental education within Africa. Its curriculum is designed to be future forward, providing students with a solid grounding in both emerging technologies and essential life skills. This approach is particularly relevant in a country as diverse as Nigeria, where cultural, social, and economic disparities can impede uniform access to education. By leveraging hybrid learning models and digital platforms, the Academy extends its reach to the remotest regions, ensuring no youth is left behind. This commitment to inclusivity not only bolsters national confidence but also serves as inspiration for other countries striving to harness their youthful potential.
A cornerstone of the Academy’s model is its emphasis on community involvement and sustainable development. The institution encourages students to engage in projects that address local challenges, helping to instill a sense of responsibility and ownership over their country’s development. By integrating service learning and community projects into its programs, the Academy cultivates a generation that values social impact alongside personal success. These initiatives have the dual benefit of strengthening community ties while honing practical skills that students can apply in real-world scenarios. This holistic approach prepares individuals not just to enter the workforce but to become transformative, civic-minded leaders.
The innovative spirit fostered by the Nigerian Youth Academy resonates deeply within its local communities, sparking a chain reaction of empowerment that permeates the very fabric of society. As students transition from learners to leaders, they carry with them the values of ingenuity and resilience instilled by the Academy. This has manifested in a burgeoning culture of local entrepreneurship, where graduates are not simply applying for jobs but are actively contributing to the economic landscape by launching startups and small businesses. These ventures often focus on solving community issues, such as sustainable agriculture, affordable healthcare, and renewable energy solutions, showcasing the Academy’s far-reaching influence and the tangible impact of its teachings.
Beyond its immediate educational objectives, the Academy will operate as a hub for cultural exchange and global awareness, connecting Nigerian youth with their international peers. Through exchange programs, international collaborations, and virtual interactions, students gain a global perspective that enriches their understanding of cultural diversity and global challenges. This exposure not only broadens their horizons but also contributes to a more interconnected and cooperative world community. By cultivating global citizens equipped with both local pride and international acumen, the Nigerian Youth Academy stands at the forefront of a movement that recognizes the power of youth as a driving force for positive global change. This dynamic interplay ensures that Nigeria’s youth, empowered by their education, are poised to leave an indelible mark on the world stage.
As Nigeria stands on the brink of demographic and economic transformation, the Nigerian Youth Academy will play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s trajectory. By investing in the education and empowerment of its youth, Nigeria lays the foundation for sustained growth and innovation. The Academy’s vision extends beyond immediate vocational training; it is about building a resilient generation capable of navigating and thriving in an ever-evolving landscape. The ripple effects of this endeavor promise to extend beyond Nigeria’s borders, positioning the nation as a leader in youth-driven development and a beacon of progress across Africa and the world.
Ojepe is the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Youth Engagement
Tinubu Condoles With Florence Ajimobi Over Daughter’s Death
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed his heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, wife of the former Governor of Oyo State, on the passing of her beloved daughter, Mrs. Bisola Kola-Daisi.
In a poignant conversation with the bereaved mother on Thursday, President Tinubu conveyed his deep sympathy to the family during this time of profound loss, acknowledging the unexpected and heart-wrenching departure of a cherished daughter, devoted wife, and mother of three.
President Tinubu also extended his prayers and support to Mrs. Kola-Daisi’s husband, family, friends, and associates, remembering her as warm-hearted, industrious, and charitable.
He highlighted the enduring impact of Mrs Kola-Daisi’s contributions as a successful businesswoman and a trusted public servant in an advisory capacity, whose wise counsel in budgeting and finance was invaluable.
President Tinubu prayed for Almighty God’s grace to receive her soul and provide comfort and strength to her survivors.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)
March 28, 2025
You’re My Knight In Shinning Armour, Remi Tinubu Pens Loving Message To President On His Birthday
I rejoice and thank God Almighty for His faithfulness in your life, over the years.
I celebrate your courage, strength and resilience that have all contributed to who we both are today.
May you live long, in divine health, joy, peace and prosperity.
Happy Birthday Mr. President…My Knight in Shining Armor
Her Excellency
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON
First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
ICPC Arraigns ex-Foreign Affairs Deputy Director for Alleged Diversion of Funds
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has arraigned Mrs. Christiana Goka, a former Deputy Director in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on allegations of misappropriating public funds amounting to N5.398 million.
Mrs. Goka, who also served as the Head of the Department of Research Monitoring Information System at the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA), was brought before Justice J.A. Aina of the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Kwali, Abuja, on a five-count charge bordering on misappropriation of funds and providing false statements.
According to the charges, Mrs. Goka allegedly misappropriated N5,164,656 from funds earmarked for a botched management retreat of the Ministry at Dutse, Jigawa State, in 2017.
One of the charges reads:
“That you, Mrs. Christiana Goka ‘F’, sometime in 2017 or thereabout, being a public officer serving as the Deputy Director and Head of the Department of Research Monitoring Information System at the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (DTCA), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Garki, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, did confer a corrupt advantage upon yourself in the sum of N5,164,656.00 (Five Million One Hundred and Sixty-Four Thousand Six Hundred and Fifty-Six Naira), which was part of the larger sum of N5,398,656.00 (Five Million Three Hundred and Ninety-Eight Thousand Six Hundred and Fifty-Six Naira) meant for the Botched Management Retreat at Dutse, Jigawa State in 2017, and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 19 of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
“That you, Mrs. Christiana Goka ‘F’, sometimes in 2017 or thereabout, being a public officer serving-as the Deputy Director and Head of Department Research Monitoring-Information System in the Directorate of Technical Cooperation in Africa (‘DTCA'”), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Garki Abuja Federal Capital Territory, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court did make a statement on 18/02/22 to Sado Danjuma, an officer of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission while in the course of exercising his duties of investigation, in which you made a statement to wit – that the sum of N1,000,000.00 (One Million Naira) returned to you in cash by one Bassey Ikpeme on the instruction of the then Director General of DTCA, Ambassador Abduljalil Suleiman (now late) was false and never happened, which statement to your knowledge is false and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 25(1)(a) and punishable under Section 25(1)(b) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act,2000”
Additionally, Mrs. Goka is accused of providing false information to an ICPC investigator, denying the receipt of N1,000,000 in cash, which was reportedly returned to her on the instruction of the then-Director General of DTCA, the late Ambassador Abduljalil Suleiman.
At the commencement of the trial on March 27, 2025, the prosecution counsel, David Nwaze, called two witnesses who testified and were cross-examined.
This act constitutes an offence under Section 25(1)(a) and is punishable under Section 25(1)(b) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.
The Court, having previously granted the Defendant bail under the same conditions as her administrative bail, allowed her to remain on those terms after she pleaded not guilty to all charges when they were read to her.
As part of the bail conditions, the Defendant must provide a surety who is employed in the Federal Republic of Nigeria at Grade Level 15 or above and resides in Abuja.
The surety is required to submit a letter of appointment, proof of last promotion, an identity card, and a passport photograph.
Justice J.A. Aina subsequently adjourned the case
Tinubu At 73, A Rare Gift To Humanity, Says Sanwo-Olu
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, describing him as a rare gift to humanity.
He said President Tinubu at 73 deserves all the commendation for his contribution to politics, governance, economy and the development of Lagos State and now, Nigeria.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, in a congratulatory message issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Gboyega Akosile, described President Tinubu as an enigmatic, tested and trusted politician and a democrat whose democratic credentials are materials for research in academic circles.
He said: “On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke, family, the government and people of Lagos State, as well as the entire leaders and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos, I congratulate our leader and benefactor, President Bola Tinubu, on his 73rd birthday.
“President Tinubu donated the greater part of his adult life for service to humanity, Lagos State and Nigeria in particular. He is passionate about the growth and development of the country. He is a democrat and an advocate of good governance, who always teams up with other pro-democracy groups and individuals for positive change and the development of Nigeria’s democracy.
“He is undoubtedly the father of modern Lagos. His tenure as the first Governor in the present Fourth Republic changed the story of Lagos positively. Asiwaju Bola Tinubu’s financial engineering and economic intellect, which he put to good use as the Governor of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, have taken our dear state to a greater height. Today, Lagos is the pride of Nigeria, occupying an enviable position as Africa’s second-largest city in economy, with a GDP of $259 billion.
“President Tinubu is a detribalised Nigerian whose heart accommodates every section of the country. In his less than two years as President, he has delivered dividends of democracy and good governance in every part of Nigeria through his Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Since assuming office, the President has demonstrated unparalleled patriotism, integrity, honesty, and courage in the task of nation building, steering the ship of Nigeria in the right direction. He has provided honest and transparent leadership in Nigeria by taking bold and audacious decisions and implementing the right policies to address the country’s economic challenges.
“As our leader turns 73, we pray that God will continue to give him strength, wisdom and good health to continue to serve and direct the affairs of our country towards political and economic prosperity.”
Zambian Vice President Lauds Sanwo-Olu On Human Capital Development, Gender Inclusion
The Vice President of the Republic of Zambia, Mrs Mutale Nalumango, has commended Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his administration’s commitment to human capital development.
She also praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for ensuring women’s inclusion in his government.
Nalumango said Zambia is ready to learn and partner with the Lagos State Government on issues relating to development.
Vice President Nalumango, who was accompanied by top government officials from Zambia, spoke on Thursday, 27 March, 2025, during a courtesy visit to Governor Sanwo-Olu at Lagos House, Marina.
She said: “We have a long-lasting relationship between Zambia and Nigeria. It is a relationship that has not been interrupted by circumstances. We should speak and come together as brothers. There should be a new beginning every day.
“We have a lot of things in common. We should be able to share and learn from one another. So, it is important to look for opportunities between ourselves within the continent of Africa. I believe we will do well if we start thinking outside the box and do things together.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu said there is a 30-year development plan by the Lagos State Government to ensure that “Lagos becomes a place to come for any level of human resource for professional development in the tech space, sports, entertainment and entrepreneurship.”
The Governor implored all African countries to develop their young population for the future, engage in bilateral trade among themselves and facilitate development at all levels.
“We have similarities. We know that Africa has the young population to be the leader of the world tomorrow. But we need to get them ready. We need to play our part. We need to ensure that we have a space in the room. We need to tell our own story and tell it convincingly.
“We need to say to ourselves, what are the strengths that we both have?’ Since there is no division, we should be able to cross countries and borders effortlessly. We should be able to produce what we use and use what we produce.
“We should do trade among ourselves first and facilitate development at all levels of government and the private sector to ensure that nobody is coming out of the continent to tell us what we already know. We should fix things ourselves,” he advised.
Speaking on his administration’s commitment to women’s inclusion, Governor Sanwo-Olu said: “We ensure that we have full women’s participation in everything that we do. In fact, in our THEMES+ development agenda, which is our economic blueprint, we ensured that women’s inclusivity is critical in everything we do.”
EFCC Declares Aisha Achimugu Wanted Over Alleged Money Laundering
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu wanted.
The EFCC in a statement released on Friday, 28 March. 2025 by the Head, Media & Publicity, Dele Oyewale, said Achimugu is being wanted in an alleged case of criminal conspiracy and money laundering.
It was gathered that Achimugu is accused of secretly funnelling funds to opposition leaders Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar during the 2023 elections.
Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s camp in a statement issued on Thursday described the allegation as a blatant lie from the pit of hell.
Paul Ibe, media aide to Atiku said it’s a futile campaign of calumny aimed at advancing the political interests of Tinubu.
However, on Friday, 28 March, 2025 EFCC went ahead to declare Achimugu wanted
“The public is hereby notified that AISHA SULAIMAN ACHIMUGU, whose photograph appears above is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of Criminal Conspiracy and Money Laundering.
“Achimugu, 51, is an indigene of Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State and her last known address is: 6C, Rudolf Close, Maitama, Abuja.
“Anybody with useful information as to her whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt or Abuja offices or through 08093322644; its e-mail address: info@efcc.gov.ng or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies,” EFCC said.
IMF Appoints Billionaire Tony Elumelu Into Its Advisory Council
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has appointed Nigerian billionaire and Group Chairman of Heirs Holdings, owners of United Bank of Africa(UBA), Tony Elumelu to its Advisory Council on entrepreneurship and growth, convened by Kristalina Georgieva, the Fund Managing Director.
IMF made this disclosure in a statement issued on Friday, 27 March, 2025.
According to the statement, the IMF advisory council comprises global business leaders, policymakers, and academics dedicated to identifying and addressing regulatory barriers to entrepreneurship.
The IMF said Elumelu will be instrumental in ensuring that Africa’s entrepreneurship is central in policy making.
“Elumelu, Africa’s leading advocate of entrepreneurship and whose Foundation has funded, mentored, and trained over 25,000 African entrepreneurs since 2015, champions entrepreneurship as the engine for the economic transformation of Africa,” the statement reads.
“A self-made entrepreneur, Elumelu’s embracing of entrepreneurship is fundamental to his concept of Africapitalism, his belief that Africa’s private sector can and must play a leading role in the continent’s development, making long-term investments that deliver social and economic value.
“Elumelu will be instrumental in ensuring that Africa’s entrepreneurial potential is central to global economic policy making.”
Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the advisory council on March 26, Georgieva said the appointees would share their experiences on how macroeconomic and financial policies “can provide a supportive environment for innovation, entrepreneurship, and productivity — key ingredients for a thriving private sector and strong economic growth”.