The Annual LAPO Development Forum, 2024

Rationale of the Annual LAPO Development Forum:

The Annual LAPO Development Forum was initiated in 1994 as a response to the growing need for a platform to address the challenges of poverty, inequality, and sustainable development in Nigeria. The forum brings together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to share knowledge, ideas, and solutions to promote inclusive and sustainable development.

The theme of the first edition of the LAPO Annual Development Forum held in 1994 was “The Nigerian Economy and the Poor: 1984-1994”. Discussions and conclusions at this session reinforced our belief that sustainable approach to poverty alleviation must go beyond charity and directed at strengthening income capacity of the poor. Subsequent editions of the Forum addressed other pertinent issues. Former Head of State and Presidents, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, Olusegun Obasanjo, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Charles Soludo and Hon. Justice Samson O. Uwaifo, CON, JSC (Rtd) are among eminent personalities who have featured as chairmen or keynote paper presenters at previous editions of the Forum.

Objectives:

• Provide a platform for dialogue and knowledge sharing on development issues
• Identify and promote innovative solutions to poverty and inequality
• Influence policy and practice in support of sustainable development
• Empower marginalized communities and promote social justice

Key Outcomes:

The forum generates a well-documented and publicized report containing presentations, discussions, major conclusions, and recommendations capable of stimulating sustainable the socio-economic transformation in Nigeria. The implementation of new and existing policies drives the growth and development of the Nigerian healthcare sector.

Key Achievements:

• Over 25 years of consistent advocacy and knowledge sharing
• Contributed to policy reforms and programme initiatives in poverty reduction, health, education, and economic empowerment
• Provided a platform for marginalized communities to voice their concerns and demand action
• Facilitated partnerships and collaborations among stakeholders for sustainable development.
• Ideas generated from previous editions of the Forum have improved the programme focus and delivery methodology of development organizations including LAPO.

Impact as an Advocacy Tool:

• Influenced policy decisions and programme initiatives at national and state levels
• Amplified the voices of marginalized communities and promoted social justice
• Contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria
• Provided a platform for knowledge sharing and innovation in development practice

Highlights of Past Editions of the Annual LAPO  Development Forum

30th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2023

29th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2022

28th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2021

27th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2020

26th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2019

25th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2018

24th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2017

23th LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2016

22nd LAPO  Annual Development Forum 2015

About LAPO  

Lift Above Poverty Organization (LAPO) is a non-governmental and not for profit development organisation that is totally committed to the social, health and economic empowerment of the poor and vulnerable in Nigeria. LAPO was founded by Dr. Godwin Eseiwi Ehigiamusoe in 1987 while working as a Rural Cooperative Officer in Ogwashi-Uku, Delta State.

Over the years, the organisation has demonstrated uncommon commitment to poverty alleviation through the implementation of innovative credit and non-credit empowerment programmes targeting disadvantaged groups. LAPO programmes include gender sensitization aimed at reducing the level of gender inequity, social exclusion and health intervention, which include prevention, care and treatment of HIV/AIDS, malaria and other tropical diseases.

Vision

The leading institution enabling prosperity,

excellent health and social justice in Africa

Our Mission

To use innovative approaches to provide financial, health and social services to stakeholders in a sustainable manner.

For further information on the Annual LAPO Development Forum, contact:

Honestus Ayobami Obadiora PhD
Executive Director.

Tel: 0806 6981901

James-Wisdom Abhulimen D.Sc                          Rosemary Okwuobi
Head, Programme & Communications           Manager, Health & Special Projects
Tel: 08163706505, 09059493989                           Tel: 08133994016