BDF, NESG Partner to Boost Post-Conflict Recovery and Socioeconomic Growth in Borno

The Borno Development Foundation (BDF) and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) have entered into a strategic partnership aimed at accelerating post-conflict recovery and driving inclusive socioeconomic development in Borno State and the wider northern Nigeria region.

At a ceremony held in Abuja, the two organizations formalized their collaboration through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), underscoring a shared vision to foster peace, stability, and long-term progress in communities affected by conflict and displacement.

The MoU was signed by Mr. Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, Chairman of the BDF Board of Governors, and Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf, Chairman of the NESG. The agreement outlines a comprehensive framework for joint action in areas such as policy advocacy, institutional development, research, innovation, and program design and implementation.

“This partnership aims to address critical challenges such as post-conflict reconstruction, poverty alleviation, and economic revitalization,” the Foundation noted in a statement. “Special focus will be placed on empowering vulnerable groups, including internally displaced persons (IDPs), women, and youth.”

Speaking at the event, Air Marshal Al-Amin Daggash (Rtd.), Chairman of the BDF Board of Trustees, emphasized the Foundation’s mission-driven approach. “The Borno Development Foundation is a necessary response to extraordinary challenges. It is designed to be a convener, facilitator, and catalyst for sustainable change, grounded in the values of professionalism, inclusivity, and local ownership,” he said.

He added, “We believe the people of Borno deserve not just recovery, but true renewal—and BDF is here to help make that a reality.”

Mr. Hayatu-Deen reaffirmed BDF’s commitment to building a credible, transparent, and community-focused institution. “Our goal is to serve the people of Borno with integrity and effectiveness,” he said. “Through strategic partnerships, we aim to mobilize resources, knowledge, and capabilities that can meet the urgent and evolving needs of our communities.”

From NESG’s side, Mr. Olaniyi Yusuf praised the vision behind BDF and stressed the importance of regional stability to Nigeria’s broader development goals. “Borno’s prosperity is vital to the future of Nigeria,” he stated. “With over three decades of experience in economic reform and stakeholder engagement, NESG is proud to support BDF’s mission of rebuilding lives, institutions, and economies.”

BDF to Mobilize $1 Million for Community-Led Development

As part of its next phase, BDF is set to mobilize $1 million in funding from private philanthropy, development agencies, and corporate partners. These resources will support initiatives in education, healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, and community rebuilding.

The Foundation also plans to establish a Knowledge and Resource Centre to guide research-based decision-making and ensure that its approach remains agile, inclusive, and data-driven.

Looking ahead, BDF will focus on strengthening its governance systems, expanding its funding base both domestically and internationally, and delivering impactful, locally owned programs.

The Foundation is calling on all stakeholders—citizens, private sector leaders, philanthropists, development partners, and government actors—to work together in shaping a future where every Borno citizen has the opportunity to thrive.

“The Borno Development Foundation presents a new and hopeful path forward—one backed by leaders who are determined in their belief that, with the right institutions, Borno’s future can be transformed.”