Msgr. Obiora Ike to Serve as Panelist at International Economics Conference in Istanbul

Enugu, Nigeria — 26 June 2025

Monsignor Professor Dr Obiora Ike, a distinguished Nigerian ethicist, theologian, and social development advocate, has formally accepted an invitation to serve as a panelist at the Istanbul Conference on Economics and Society (ISTCES2025). The prestigious event, hosted by the Department of Economics at Ibn Haldun University, Turkey, will be held from 24th to 26th September 2025 under the theme: “Pathways to Inclusive Growth: Overcoming Challenges in Developing and Emerging African Countries.”

In his acceptance statement, Msgr. Ike expressed appreciation for the honour, describing the conference theme as “actual, critical, challenging and in need of a spread of engaged thought leaders, practitioners and partners to explore further for solutions and integration into national, regional and international practice.”

As the Founder and President of the Catholic Institute for Development Justice Peace and Caritas (CIDJAP) and Professor of Ethics and Intercultural Studies at Godfrey Okoye University, Msgr. Ike brings decades of experience in advocacy, governance, and community-based development. His current role as Pro-Chancellor of the State University of Medical and Applied Sciences (SUMAS) further underscores his contribution to public policy and education.

The upcoming ISTCES2025 conference seeks to convene global scholars, economists, policymakers, and development experts to examine inclusive economic pathways in Africa. With a focus on equity, resilience, and poverty reduction, the event aims to spark actionable conversations and future collaborations that address the continent’s pressing development challenges.

In their invitation, the organisers acknowledged Msgr. Ike’s “expertise in academia, consultancy and governmental economic policy making,” and noted that his perspective would be invaluable in shaping the conference discussions.

Msgr. Ike’s participation in the Istanbul event reaffirms his long-standing commitment to building bridges between ethical reflection and practical solutions. His presence is expected to contribute significantly to the discourse on sustainable development, justice, and inclusive growth across Africa.