Tinubu Stands Firm on Economic Transformation - Shettima

Vice-President Shettima Highlights Tinubu’s Commitment to Economic Diversification

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the Nigerian President, Bola Tinubu's unwavering commitment to transforming the country's economic landscape. This statement was made during a meeting with a delegation from the Nigerian Economic Society (NES) on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The Vice-President described Tinubu as a leader who possesses the political will to make bold decisions. He highlighted the President's recent visit to Brazil, which led to the signing of five Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in key areas such as aviation, foreign affairs, science and technology, and agriculture. These agreements, according to Shettima, represent deliberate steps toward diversifying the nation's economy.

"President Tinubu is an ally and a friend who understands the language of business and commerce. He has the political courage to navigate the economic terrain effectively," said Shettima. He further noted that the current government, along with relevant stakeholders, is uniquely positioned to convert Nigeria's potential into demographic dividends.

Shettima pointed out that Nigeria's youthful population presents an opportunity to fill global talent gaps. He expressed confidence that Nigerians possess the intellectual know-how and versatility to reposition the country economically through the Renewed Hope Agenda initiated by President Tinubu.

The Vice-President also praised the NES as one of the oldest organizations in Nigeria's economic ecosystem. He called for the society's support in achieving the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda. Shettima urged the NES to develop more robust solutions to the nation's challenges, assuring them that the administration is open to their input and perspectives on economic diversification.

NES Delegation Praises Economic Reforms

Earlier, the President of the NES, Prof. Adeola Adenikinju, commended the current administration's economic reforms, describing them as bold and yielding tangible results. He pledged the NES's firm support for the Tinubu administration's efforts and policies. Adenikinju also offered to serve in the Federal Government's economic management team if integrated.

He expressed readiness for the NES to participate in relevant committees and bodies responsible for development and economic planning. Adenikinju emphasized the need for the administration to reactivate the Economic Intelligence Unit within the presidency to provide evidence-based advisory for the President.

Additionally, he announced plans to confer the society's highest award, 'Fellow of the Nigerian Economic Society (FNES)', on Vice-President Shettima at its forthcoming national conference on September 9 in Abuja.

Key Members of the NES Delegation

The NES delegation included several notable members, such as former President of the Society, Prof. Sarah Anyanwu; Council members, Dr Rislanudeen Muhammad and Dr Idris Idris, Chairman of the Abuja chapter. Other attendees were Dr Peter Agunloye, Special Assistant to the NES President, Dr Justin Amase, and Chairperson of the Local Organising Committee of the conference, Lady Nonye Ndidi, among others.