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Tinubu, Wike Meet In UK

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Tinubu, Wike Meet In UK

Tinubu, Wike Meet In UK

There are strong indications that the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate, Bola Tinubu, is intensifying efforts to get the support of the Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike for the 2023 presidential poll.

Contrary to some online reports that the duo met in France on Tuesday, multiple sources confirmed to The PUNCH on Tuesday that Tinubu and Wike met in London, the United Kingdom, on Monday as part of moves to work together ahead of the election.

It was gathered that some APC and Peoples Democratic Party governors also attended the crucial meeting.

Prior to the Monday meeting, the ruling party had attempted to cash in on the crisis in the PDP over the presidential primary won by former vice-president Atiku Abubakar, which left Wike aggrieved.

On July 8, three APC governors, Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State visited Wike at his Rumueprikon country home in Port Harcourt, as part of moves to woo him.

Also present at the meeting was a former Ekiti governor and PDP member, Ayodele Fayose.

The PDP set up a reconciliation panel to resolve the crisis between Atiku and Wike. The crisis began after the Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, emerged as Atiku’s running mate.

After several postponements, the panel met Wike in Port Harcourt last Friday but the meeting ended in a stalemate following the insistence of the Rivers State governor on the removal of the National Chairman of the PDP, Iyorchia Ayu, over the role he played in the emergence of the former vice-president as the party standard -bearer.

Sources at the meeting disclosed that Wike’s representatives at the meeting said Ayu could not be an impartial chairman because he took sides during the special convention.

It was gathered that the failure of the reconciliation panel to assuage Wike’s anger had put Atiku’s peace moves on a shaky ground, leaving room for Tinubu to court the governor.

Confirming the meeting between Wike and the APC presidential candidate, a source in Tinubu’s camp said the parley was held in London.

He stated, “Governors Sanwo-Olu and Fayemi were equally part of the delegation. Contrary to what some online media are speculating, the meeting was held in London yesterday (Monday).’’

Asked if an agreement was struck, the source said he could not confirm because the full details had not been disclosed to him.

The source added, “Don’t forget that Sanwo-Olu and Fayemi earlier went with Fayose and Akeredolu to see Wike in Port Harcourt on behalf of our principal. Definitely, something is going on between them. However, I may not be in a position to tell whether there was a sort of MoU or agreement between them.’’

‘Amaechi lukewarm’

On whether the romance between Tinubu’s men and Wike was a possible factor fuelling the gale of defections in Rivers APC, he noted, “We are not concerned about (ex-minister Rotimi) Amaechi at the moment. He has been lukewarm to Tinubu’s ticket and we know Wike’s action is giving his camp sleepless nights. In truth, what does Amaechi brings to the table?’’

Speaking further, the party stalwart stated, ‘’In the last elections, how many votes did Amaechi garner from Rivers for the APC? In the 2015 election, he raked in over 60,000 votes. In 2019, he brought 130,000 votes. What is all that? We didn’t even win 10 per cent.

“Politics is a game of numbers. You need to have people who will back your ticket, not people without electoral value. Wike has done far more than he did. I don’t know how Wike did it but he seems to have warmed his way into the hearts of his people and they seem to support him more. The way we see it, Rivers State is very important to anybody who wants to win the presidency.’’

It was also gathered that governors Samuel Ortom of Benue State; Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State and Seyi Makinde, were part of the meeting. However, The PUNCH could not independently confirm this.

But a government official in Makurdi who did not want to be identified told one of our correspondents in Benue that Ortom jetted out of the country on Sunday and would return on Thursday.

Though the source could not identify other governors on the trip, he said, “The governor left Nigeria on Sunday and is expected back on Thursday.”

This is happening barely six days after Ortom and his counterparts in Rivers and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde returned to Nigeria from a trip abroad.

The Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State governor, Mr Taiwo Adisa, on his part, said, “The governor is on leave and he properly handed over to the deputy governor, who is now the acting governor.”

But the Chief Press Secretary to the Lagos State Governor, Mr Gboyega Akosile, told The PUNCH that Sanwo-Olu did not travel out of the country.

He said, “No, he didn’t travel out. That is a mere rumour. Just two days ago we had an event, and calling him today, he is in town. If you call his number now it would ring.”

However, a reliable government source told The PUNCH that the governor travelled out but had returned to the state.

“He travelled out two days ago but returned today (Tuesday); he is in Lagos now,” he said.

Although it could not be confirmed when Fayemi travelled out of the country, our correspondent last saw him on Sunday at the 2022 Udiroko Festival of Ado Ekiti community.

Fayemi left the event at about 3.55pm immediately after delivering his address leaving his wife, Bisi; the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Adeyemo Adejugbe; the Ekiti State Deputy Governor, Bisi Egbeyemi; former Niger State Governor, Babangida Aliyu; and other dignitaries and guests behind as he left the Ewi Palace Pavilion, venue of the celebration.

It, however, cannot be ascertained whether he left the venue for Akure Airport en-route Abuja for the London trip.

Also, a top aide of Ikpeazu, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the governor had travelled out of the country. “The governor is not in the country. The report is everywhere.”

A PDP chieftain in Rivers state confirmed that Wike travelled out of the country on Monday morning, adding that his destination was unknown.

He said, “Definitely the governor is not in the country. Certainly, he is in Europe but where exactly, I do not know. What I can tell you is that I know the governor usually visits Spain because of the ties the Rivers State Government under his leadership has with the Real Madrid Football Club.

“I mean you know too well that we have a Real Madrid Football Academy here in Port Harcourt. So that explains it.

‘No defection decision’

“I know there are speculations here and there that he is in France or Britain and all that, but I don’t know where the media vet all those.

“Whether he is meeting with Bola Tinubu or not, Governor Wike has not told us he is leaving the PDP. But for sure I know he is not in the country. Maybe when he returns, we will know where he travelled to,” he stated.”

The Special Assistant on Media to the Rivers State Governor, Mr Kelvin Ebiri, could not be reached for comment as he didn’t respond to calls and a text message on Tuesday.

When contacted for comment on Tinubu’s attempt to woo Wike, the PDP spokesman, Debo Ologunagba, declined comment, saying he was not aware of the meeting.

Asked about the attempt to resolve the crisis between Wike and Atiku, Ologunagba said, ‘’The reconciliation process is ongoing and we are making good progress. It is a marathon and not a sprint and we are confident that at the end of the day, everything would be fine.’’

Speaking on Tinubu’s moves to woo the Rivers state governor, a source noted that there was a reason some people were worried about Tinubu’s moves to woo Wike.

The source stated, “I’m certain people are worried that Asiwaju is romancing Wike. There is a reason for it. All I know is that there is a southern connection to ensure the presidency does not slip out of our hands after eight years of Northern rule.

“That’s why even Governor Seyi Makinde turned down the offer to become Atiku’s campaign Director-General. This is because for Makinde, accepting to lead such a campaign for a Northern candidate has an implication for him. He knows that himself hence the need to be very careful. ’The presidential election is still five months away. The political manoeuvring must begin now.’’

Meanwhile, unconfirmed reports said the PDP presidential candidate had also travelled to London.

It could not be confirmed if Atiku planned to meet with Wike in order to resolve the crisis tearing the opposition party apart.

But Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, confirmed that his principal travelled to Europe “for a business meeting,’’ after attending the 62nd Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association in Lagos, on Monday.

In a related development, the Chairman of the PDP Board of Trustees, Senator Walid Jibrin has again reiterated his earlier stand that the party’s leadership structure is pro-north.

Jibrin had on Sunday while featuring on a Channels television Programme ‘Sunday Politics’ said it was not right for the party’s presidential candidate, the national chairman and the BoT chairman, to hail from the same region.

Jibrin in a statement on Tuesday, said, ‘’Based on my earlier statement that the PDP cannot produce a northern president, national chairman, BoT chairman all from the north for the 2023 presidential elections. I still maintain my stand on that statement.

“The PDP is a party that caters for all Nigerians, it’s not sectional but loved by all Nigerians. As the PDP BoT chairman, I must say the truth and nothing but the truth no matter anyone’s criticism. I do not fear anyone but God and the true agenda of our party.

BoT awaits report

“I will add that I stand strongly on my toes; I have been a true member of PDP since its inception in 1998. Today, I’m one of the trustees’ members of the party who remained in the party since 1998 that never changed to any party passing all positions in the PDP.’’

According to him, the BoT is eagerly waiting for the report of the Reconciliation Committee headed by the Governor Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State and Prof Jerry Gana.

He further pledged that the BoT would continue discussing with all other aggrieved members of the party including those in states, zones and nationally.

Reacting to Jibrin’s statement, a former member of the House of Representatives, Ogbonna Nwuke, hailed the BoT chair, saying he deserved appreciation from Nigerians for standing by the truth.

Nwuke, who represented Etche-Omuma federal constituency in the National Assembly, said, “I think the chairman of the BoT deserves the appreciation of all Nigerians, particularly those of us who are in the PDP.

“He has stuck by the truth since this crisis started. Truly, he has turned out to be the conscience of our great party. His admission that it is wrong for the North to have everything from BoT chairmanship to the presidential ticket shows that he is a patriot. Those who are fighting for justice, fairness and equity will not forget him.”

Nwuke, a former Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, however, said the party constitution recognises the fact that the party chairmanship and the presidential ticket cannot be domiciled in one geographical zone.

He added, “Article 7, subsection 3(c) clearly expresses this fine point that has made power sharing in the PDP the rallying point of our common unity.

“Recall that prior to the National Convention, when the zoning of national offices took place, all the positions in the South went to the North while those held in the North moved to the South.

“What did not move to the South after the National convention was the presidency. Given the way the PDP has done things over the years, the presidency should be in the South at this time.’’

Tinubu, Wike Meet In UK

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The journey in two years: Tinubu and Shettima’s leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

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Tinubu and Shettima

The journey in two years: Tinubu and Shettima’s leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

By: Dr. James Bwala

The past two years of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have been characterized by a blend of commendations and criticisms, reflecting the complexities of governance in Nigeria. Their administration has navigated significant challenges, with both leaders striving to assert their roles amid public scrutiny and political opposition. While Tinubu’s leadership is often viewed through the lens of his extensive political experience, Shettima brings a background as a former governor and senator, contributing to the executive’s multifaceted roles in providing good governance to Nigerians. 

Despite efforts to consolidate power and implement policy initiatives, their tenure has faced notable backlash. Opposition parties have criticized frequent foreign trips by both leaders as wasteful expenditures that may detract from domestic governance priorities during times of economic hardship. These critiques underscore the delicate balance between international diplomacy and internal accountability.

Tinubu and Shettima’s journey over two years reflects a complex dynamic where achievements coexist with public dissatisfaction. Their administration continues to grapple with managing perceptions while addressing Nigeria’s pressing socio-economic issues. The discourse around their governance reveals not only policy challenges but also broader questions about leadership efficacy in contemporary Nigerian politics. 

The presidential ticket of Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Kashim Shettima, both Muslims, initially sparked widespread debate in Nigeria due to concerns over its religious composition. Critics feared that the Muslim-Muslim ticket might exacerbate religious tensions or marginalize Christian communities. However, this apprehension has largely been countered by evidence demonstrating that the duo’s political journey has been marked by inclusivity and balanced governance. Rather than emphasizing religion, their leadership underscores competence and national unity, echoing historical precedents where shared religious identity did not hinder political success. 

Christian leaders under the National Solemn Assembly (NaSA) have publicly acknowledged a shift in perception regarding the ticket. Initial fears of religious oppression have given way to recognition of equitable representation within government appointments and policymaking processes. This evolving acceptance highlights how effective governance can transcend sectarian divides and foster national cohesion.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/police-charge-rooms-a-minting-press/

Despite initial skepticism rooted in Nigeria’s complex religious landscape, the Tinubu-Shettima ticket exemplifies a promising model where leadership is defined by vision and inclusiveness rather than sectarian affiliation. Their journey thus far challenges entrenched biases against Muslim-Muslim tickets and reaffirms the primacy of competence over religion in Nigerian politics. This shift in perspective underscores the importance of evaluating political candidates based on their policies and ability to address national issues, rather than solely on their religious affiliations. 

The ongoing success of their administration serves as a testament to the potential for political unity and progress when leaders focus on shared goals rather than divisive identities. As their administration continues to navigate complex national challenges, the focus remains steadfast on economic development, security enhancement, and infrastructural growth, further reinforcing the narrative that effective leadership transcends religious affiliations. Their administration’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and addressing the diverse needs of Nigeria’s populace continues to dismantle preconceived notions about religious exclusivity in governance. 

The call by the Concerned Northern Muslim Ummah for President Bola Tinubu to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima with a Northern Christian as running mate in the 2027 presidential election represents a misplaced political appeal rather than an objective solution to Nigeria’s complex political dynamics. While the group frames its demand as a pursuit of religious balance and national cohesion following the contentious Muslim-Muslim ticket of 2023, such an appeal risks reducing political representation to mere religious arithmetic, potentially exacerbating divisions instead of fostering genuine unity. 

This demand can be interpreted as an expression of coalition opposition cloaked in religious rhetoric. By urging Muslim aspirants to step aside for Christian candidates, the group implicitly politicizes religion as a tool for electoral bargaining rather than promoting inclusive governance based on merit and policy considerations. Hence, while religious inclusivity is important, politicizing it in this manner undermines democratic principles and may deepen identity-based cleavages under the guise of fairness. 

The emphasis on religious identity as a primary criterion for political appointments disregards the multifaceted challenges facing Nigeria, where effective leadership and governance should ideally transcend sectarian lines. In a nation grappling with economic challenges, security threats, and infrastructural deficits, prioritizing religious identity over competence and visionary leadership could detract from addressing the pressing needs of the populace. Instead, fostering a political environment where leaders are evaluated based on their ability to address systemic issues and drive progress is crucial for Nigeria’s development trajectory.

Contrary to the antics of opposition parties, President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima have demonstrated commendable leadership that is gradually placing Nigeria on a transformative path. Despite criticisms and misinformation propagated by detractors, their administration has embarked on bold economic reforms aimed at stabilizing and revitalizing the Nigerian economy. For instance, Tinubu’s decisive removal of the fuel subsidy and realignment of the multiple exchange rate have been pivotal in curbing corruption and fostering fiscal responsibility. These policies reflect a strategic vision geared towards long-term national development rather than short-term populism.

Shettima’s active engagement in international forums such as the US-Africa Business Summit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and enhancing infrastructure development. His diplomatic efforts complement Tinubu’s domestic policies by promoting agribusiness, energy innovation, and sustainable growth. Contrary to false claims suggesting Shettima’s disengagement from his duties, credible reports confirm his proactive role in advancing Nigeria’s interests abroad. Together, their leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

The journey in two years: Tinubu and Shettima’s leadership fosters a narrative of progress that challenges opposition skepticism while positioning Nigeria favorably on the global map.

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2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

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2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

By: Dr. James Bwala

If it doesn’t function in SDP, how will it work in ADC? We were taught in basic school science that oil and water do not mix. If this metaphor is any indication, it describes the character and style of the trio who want President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to leave the Aso Rock Villa by May 29, 2027.

The Nigerian political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections is witnessing significant realignments, particularly with the emergence of a potential coalition involving Atiku Abubakar (PDP), Peter Obi (Labour Party), and Nasir El-Rufai (Social Democratic Party). This alliance aims to challenge the incumbent President Bola Tinubu and his running mate Shettima, signaling a strategic move to consolidate opposition forces against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

Despite these developments, reports suggest that Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai are losing political ground due to internal fractures and challenges in harmonizing their distinct party platforms into a cohesive coalition. The APC remains cautious but confident, downplaying the threat posed by this opposition alliance while capitalizing on its incumbency advantages. Moreover, security concerns surrounding key opposition figures like El-rufai and Peter Obi highlight systemic issues that may undermine opposition unity and effectiveness.

While the planned coalition presents a formidable challenge to Tinubu’s administration, its success hinges on overcoming ideological differences and addressing vulnerabilities within opposition ranks. The low voter turnout in previous elections also casts uncertainty on whether such coalitions can mobilize sufficient grassroots support to unseat entrenched incumbents in Nigeria’s complex political environment. 

El-Rufai was allegedly said to have run to SDP in order to be a placeholder for Atiku. However, reports breaking suggested that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, ex-Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and former Governor Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State have collectively adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as the official platform for their opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 Nigerian general election. According to them, this strategic alliance marks a significant realignment in Nigeria’s political landscape. These prominent figures seek to challenge the incumbent President Bola Tinubu and his All Progressives Congress (APC) party. The coalition aims to consolidate opposition forces under a unified banner, thereby enhancing their electoral competitiveness.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/the-plight-of-farida/

They thought they had found good ground in the SDP, setting their political balls rolling. But we learned of numerous problems and the infighting amongst them that informed new decisions, which they are claiming realignment. Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has unequivocally declared that he will not withdraw his candidacy in favor of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the forthcoming 2027 general elections. This statement marks a significant stance within Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, especially considering Atiku’s prominence as a leading figure in the People’s Democratic Party. Adebayo’s refusal to step down reflects his commitment to offering an alternative political vision through the SDP, highlighting the increasing fragmentation and diversification of political competition in Nigeria.

By maintaining his candidacy despite pressure to consolidate opposition forces behind Atiku Abubakar, Adebayo emphasizes the importance of ideological independence and electoral contestation. This dynamic also points to potential challenges within opposition politics, where coalition-building efforts may face resistance from emerging parties seeking distinct platforms. Consequently, Adebayo’s position could influence strategic alliances and voter alignments ahead of Nigeria’s critical 2027 elections. 

The ADC, established in 2005 and officially registered by Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2006, has gained renewed relevance through this high-profile adoption. Historically endorsed by influential leaders such as former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2018, the ADC now serves as a viable platform for opposition collaboration. Reports indicate ongoing efforts to restructure and strengthen the party’s organizational framework to support this coalition effectively. This development underscores an effort to create a level playing field for all political actors irrespective of their origins within Nigeria’s multi-ethnic context.

While official public announcements remain forthcoming, insider sources confirm that this coalition reflects a shared commitment among Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai to present a formidable alternative to APC dominance. However, the political dynamics involving Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai exemplify the metaphor of oil and water—elements inherently incompatible and resistant to blending. Their divergent ideologies, regional interests, and leadership styles generate tension within any coalition they form, resulting in inherent cracks that undermine unity. This fragmentation fosters uncertainty among supporters and stakeholders, weakening the coalition’s overall cohesion and strategic direction. Such internal discord often manifests as conflicting policy priorities and public disagreements that erode trust both within the alliance and among the electorate.

I believe that the inability of these leaders to reconcile their differences jeopardizes their collective political objectives. The coalition’s instability not only diminishes its bargaining power but also opens avenues for opposition forces to exploit these divisions. Consequently, this loose ground hampers effective governance planning and implementation, reflecting broader challenges in Nigerian politics where heterogeneous interests struggle to find common ground. Therefore, without deliberate efforts towards genuine compromise and collaboration, coalitions involving Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

* James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja.

2027: Atiku, Obi, and El-Rufai remain vulnerable to fragmentation akin to oil separating from water.

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How Shettima’s foreign engagements position Nigeria among progressive nations.

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VP Kashim Shettima

How Shettima’s foreign engagements position Nigeria among progressive nations.

By: Dr. James Bwala

Vice President Kashim Shettima’s international engagements have significantly elevated Nigeria’s profile among progressive nations. Through strategic diplomacy and active participation in global forums, Shettima has positioned Nigeria as a proactive contributor to international development and security initiatives. His efforts in fostering bilateral relations with key countries have enhanced economic cooperation, attracting foreign investment critical for Nigeria’s growth.

Shettima’s focus on addressing transnational challenges such as terrorism and climate change aligns Nigeria with global priorities, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to sustainable development. By advocating for collaborative solutions, he underscores Nigeria’s role as a responsible stakeholder in regional stability and environmental stewardship. These engagements not only boost Nigeria’s diplomatic leverage but also create avenues for technological exchange and capacity building.

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/2027-despite-fake-news-and-misinformation-tinubu-and-shettima-are-not-deterred-by-the-antics-of-the-coalition/

The VP’s diplomatic activities serve as a catalyst for Nigeria’s integration into the community of progressive nations. His leadership exemplifies how effective international engagement can translate into tangible socio-economic benefits at home while projecting a positive national image abroad. Between 2023 and 2025, Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima actively engaged in international collaborations aimed at fostering innovation and policy development within Africa. In 2023, Vice President Kashim Shettima played a significant role in advancing Nigeria’s international engagements, particularly through fostering collaborations between the Nigerian government and global academic institutions. A notable instance was his meeting with a delegation from the Firoz Lalji Institute for Africa and the London School of Economics’ Philanthropy and Global Engagement division held in Lagos and Abuja. This engagement centered on partnership opportunities with Nigeria’s newly launched Presidential Initiative for Innovation, Policy Evaluation, and Research (PIIPER), which aims to enhance policy development through rigorous research.

During this interaction, VP Shettima underscored the critical importance of bridging academia and government to address Africa’s political economy challenges effectively. His approach reflects a broader strategic vision to leverage international expertise in innovation and policy evaluation to promote sustainable development within Nigeria. By championing such collaborative frameworks, Shettima’s international engagements in 2023 contributed to positioning Nigeria as an active participant in global knowledge exchange networks essential for national growth.

READ ALSO:https://newsng.ng/police-charge-rooms-a-minting-press/

Notably, in 2024, Shettima played an instrumental role in facilitating dialogues between Nigerian policymakers and international financial institutions, aiming to secure funding and technical support for various developmental projects across the continent. These dialogues were crucial in aligning Nigeria’s fiscal strategies with international best practices, thereby enhancing the nation’s capacity to implement impactful economic reforms. These efforts not only facilitated knowledge exchange but also helped in establishing a framework for sustained economic growth and development across the region. Through these comprehensive international engagements, Shettima effectively positioned Nigeria to harness global insights and resources, fostering an environment conducive to transformative economic policy-making and regional leadership. 

The VP’s proactive engagement with international stakeholders has been pivotal in fostering bilateral agreements that prioritize technology transfer and capacity building, thereby enhancing Nigeria’s competitive edge in the global market. This strategic positioning also opened avenues for Nigeria to play a more active role in regional peacekeeping initiatives, leveraging international partnerships to enhance security and stability across West Africa. This multifaceted approach not only strengthened Nigeria’s diplomatic ties but also underscored Shettima’s commitment to leveraging international collaboration for domestic benefit.

In 2025, Vice President Kashim Shettima significantly enhanced Nigeria’s international profile through strategic engagements aimed at attracting investment and fostering development partnerships. At the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Shettima actively promoted Nigeria as a promising destination for investors by highlighting key infrastructure projects such as the coastal highway and West African gas pipeline, which exemplify President Tinubu’s modernization agenda. 

By countering prevailing negative perceptions about Nigeria and Africa, he sought to reposition the country within the global economic landscape. Furthermore, his participation in high-level discussions with African leaders like South African President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored a commitment to regional collaboration and leadership cohesion on international platforms. 

Shettima’s advocacy extended beyond economic diplomacy into human capital development during the 2025 World Bank/IMF Spring Meetings. 

He emphasized the importance of data-driven policies under Nigeria’s Human Capital Development 2.0 strategy, advocating for sustained political will and equitable investment in people rather than solely natural resources. His calls for enhanced international collaboration aimed at improving data collection mechanisms reflect a nuanced understanding of policy implementation challenges and highlight his focus on inclusive growth strategies. Collectively, these engagements demonstrate Shettima’s multifaceted approach to positioning Nigeria as both an investment hub and a nation committed to sustainable human development.

* * James Bwala, PhD, writes from Abuja. 

How Shettima’s foreign engagements position Nigeria among progressive nations.

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