Vice President Kashim Shettima outlines Nigeria’s bold growth targets, emphasising seven per cent annual growth, macroeconomic stability, and strategic investments

Vice President Kashim Shettima outlines Nigeria’s growth targets anchored on macroeconomic stability, improved productivity, and strategic investments in key sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and education.

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Shettima made these remarks on Tuesday during high-level bilateral engagements at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking at the event, Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s ambition to achieve no less than seven per cent annual economic growth, driven by ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

During his engagements, Shettima met with Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitbia, who praised Nigerian diplomats for their significant contributions to Namibia’s government and society.

The Namibian leader announced plans for an official visit to Nigeria to further deepen bilateral relations.

“We are all Africans, and the Nigeria–Namibia relationship should be taken to the next level, beyond where it is now,” Shettima said.

The meeting also included Nigerian ministers of Foreign Affairs, Women Affairs, and Education, highlighting the importance of this partnership.

In a separate session, Shettima engaged with the Gates Foundation delegation, led by CEO Mark Suzman, to discuss support for healthcare, agriculture, and financial inclusion in Nigeria.

He expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s partnership and urged expanded investments.

“In the Gates Foundation, we have a partner that we trust and believe in,” Shettima said, adding President Tinubu’s regards to Bill Gates.

Highlighting Nigeria’s development goals, Shettima emphasised the focus on macroeconomic stability and strategic investments to propel the nation’s growth.

Education Minister Dr Tunji Alausa appealed for increased support from the Gates Foundation, particularly in technology, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, to strengthen Nigeria’s foundational education system.

CEO Suzman pledged to enhance investment in human capital, education, and health sectors, commending Nigeria’s leadership and the government’s strong commitment.

“We just signed new grants with the Central Bank of Nigeria to support related initiatives and are very encouraged by your broader efforts,” he said.

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The Gates Foundation delegation also included Rodger Voorhies, President of the Global Growth and Opportunity Division, Uche Amaonwu, Nigeria Country Director, and Dr Paulin Basinga, Director for Africa.