The Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Biotechnology Research and Development Agency, Prof. Abdullahi Mustapha, has identified strong institutions, investment protection and citizens’ participation as critical requirements for national development.

Mustapha, who co-chaired the sixth edition of the Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards organised by Pacesetter Frontier Magazine in Abuja, said sustainable development could only be achieved when institutions were respected and allowed to function effectively.

He stressed that protecting investments and creating opportunities for citizens to contribute meaningfully to national affairs were equally important for the country’s progress.

According to him, “National development requires an environment where institutions are respected, investments are protected and citizens can contribute meaningfully.”

He made the remarks amid discussions at the event on political violence, democratic accountability, insecurity and the challenges confronting Nigeria’s development.

Precious Nwonu