Nigeria Undergoing Silent, Bold Transformation Under Tinubu – Shettima
Vice-President Kashim Shettima asserts that Nigeria is undergoing a significant transformation under President Bola Tinubu. This was stated during the Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum, highlighting an emerging partnership with Brazil. Shettima emphasizes collaboration in areas like agriculture, energy, and skills development as mutually beneficial for both countries.
Nigeria is currently experiencing a significant yet understated transformation under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, according to Vice-President Kashim Shettima. He made this remark at the Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum in Abuja, themed, “Roots to Revenue: The Nigeria–Brazil Corridor,” emphasizing that the renewed strategic partnership with Brazil focuses on mutual growth and is ripe with potential.
Shettima highlighted Brazil’s advancements in key sectors like agriculture, energy, and infrastructure as evidence of Nigeria’s ongoing transformation. “Under the leadership of President Tinubu, Nigeria is undergoing a quiet but resolute transformation. Markets are being opened; Institutions are being rebuilt; Policies are being refocused,” he said. He stressed the importance of finding partners who support Nigeria’s ambitions and objectives.
He further elaborated on Nigeria’s commitment to developing agricultural processing zones and preparing farmers for larger-scale operations, asserting the significance of collaboration with Brazil. Shettima stated, “We know the difference between going alone and going far. Brazil can stand with us in this effort, not as a donor but as a partner in innovation, training, and investment.”
The Vice-President also expressed Nigeria’s focus on clean energy and highlighted efforts to harness domestic gas reserves while advancing renewable energy initiatives. He pointed to Brazil’s experiences as invaluable resources. “We are eager to learn from your experience in building an energy economy that creates jobs, supports industries and expands access to rural communities,” he noted.
Moreover, Shettima mentioned the alignment of Nigeria’s goals with Brazil’s interest in skills development, particularly in preparing the youthful population for future challenges. He welcomed opportunities for institutional partnerships that foster training and knowledge exchange.
Brazil’s Vice-President, Geraldo Alckmin, reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations. He termed the current state of Nigeria-Brazil diplomacy as “one of the most promising” in their history. According to Alckmin, there is immense potential in sectors including agriculture, energy, and defense, but trade volumes remain underwhelming compared to their capabilities.
Alckmin noted, “Our trade is growing, but it can increase tremendously. Brazil is ready to work with Nigeria to build a commercially successful South-South corridor,” mentioning the Green Imperative Initiative as an example of fruitful South-South cooperation. He indicated that Brazil is considering establishing direct flights to Nigeria to facilitate business travel.
Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, called for a fresh approach to the bilateral trade dynamics, citing a notable drop in trade volume. She urged, “The Nigeria-Brazil corridor is not a nostalgic idea; it is realistic and achievable. Let us walk the talk and ensure our deliberations yield results.” Oduwole outlined priority investment sectors of Nigeria, including agro-industrial value chains and pharmaceuticals, and shared ongoing efforts to streamline investor engagement.
Additionally, Princess Zarah Mustapha, the Director-General of PEBEC, accentuated the importance of state-level reforms to enhance sub-national investments.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s transformative efforts under President Tinubu’s leadership, particularly regarding the new strategic alliance with Brazil, suggest a forward trajectory for both nations. As both countries strive to strengthen their ties in multiple sectors, the need for focused partnerships and investments is paramount. Significant steps are being taken, with hopes of revitalizing trade relations and harnessing innovations from Brazil, aligning perfectly with Nigeria’s ambitious goals for growth and development.
Original Source: punchng.com
