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Tag: Kashim Shettima

  • Shettima arrives Sweden for two-day visit

    Shettima arrives Sweden for two-day visit

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived Sweden for a two-day working visit aimed at boosting trade and bilateral relations between Nigeria and Sweden.

    This was disclosed in a statement on Thursday morning by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha. 

    The visit, initiated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will see the Vice President engage in high-level talks with key Swedish government officials, including Crown Princess Victoria and the Swedish Prime Minister. 

    Shettima is accompanied by a delegation comprising Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar and heads of various government agencies and parastatals.

    During his visit, Shettima will focus on strengthening collaboration between Nigeria and Sweden in key areas, including Information and Communication Technology (ICT), digitalisation, education, sustainable transport, agriculture, and mining.

    Read Also: Shettima heads to Sweden for bilateral talks, investments

    Shettima is scheduled to return to Nigeria on Saturday, concluding his visit to Sweden. 

    “Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Sweden for a 2-day working visit aimed at boosting trade and bilateral relations between both nations.

    “The Vice President is accompanied by the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and some heads of  government agencies and parastatals.

    “The visit, which is at the behest of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, will see the Vice President engage in high-level talks with key government officials. He is also slated to meet with Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden and the Swedish Prime Minister.

    “Targeted areas of strengthened collaboration between Nigeria and Sweden that will be pursued by the Vice President include ICT, digitalisation, education, sustainable transport, agriculture and mining.

    “The Vice President is expected back in the country on Saturday,” the statement reads 

    The Vice President’s discussions with Swedish officials are expected to yield mutually beneficial agreements, enhancing economic cooperation and development between the two nations. 

    The outcome of the visit will be closely watched, as Nigeria seeks to leverage international partnerships to drive its economic growth and development agenda.

  • No leadership vacuum, Presidency assures

    No leadership vacuum, Presidency assures

    The Presidency has allayed fears of a leadership vacuum despite President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima being abroad. 

    According to Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President and Vice President remain fully engaged with the nation’s affairs, even while abroad.

    Tinubu left Nigeria on October 3 for a two-week working vacation during which he has been actively issuing directives and responding to matters of state.

    Shettima departed for Sweden on Wednesday for an official visit, representing Nigeria’s interests. 

    In a statement on Wednesday, Onanuga emphasised that all state organs are functioning normally with the Senate President, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ministers, and Service Chiefs carrying out their duties as usual.

    He highlighted that this is not an unprecedented situation, as similar instances occurred in 2022 and 2024 with no disruption to governance. 

    He also pointed out that the Constitution does not require the physical presence of the President or Vice President to fulfill their duties, allowing for seamless continuity.

    Read Also: Shettima heads to Sweden for bilateral talks, investment opportunities

    The Presidency cited previous instances where the President and Vice President were simultaneously abroad, including in 2022 when former President Buhari attended the United Nations General Assembly while former Vice President Osinbajo attended Queen Elizabeth II’s burial.

    “Following enquiries by journalists as to who is in  charge of our country as the President and Vice President are out of the country, we want to clarify:

    “It is important to note that the President and Vice President are fully engaged with the nation’s affairs, even while they are away. There is no leadership vacuum in the country.

    “President Tinubu left the country on 3 October and is on a two-week working vacation. During this time, he has been busy answering phones and issuing directives on matters of state. He will soon return to the country before the vacation officially expires.

    “The vice president departed the country Wednesday for Sweden on an official visit, working for Nigeria.

    “All state organs are functioning as usual. The Senate President, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Ministers, and Service Chiefs are all in their respective positions, ensuring the smooth operation of the government.

    “We had a similar situation in 2022 when former President Buhari and former Vice President Osinbajo were found to be simultaneously out of the country. President Buhari attended UNGA 77, while Osinbajo participated in the burial of Queen Elizabeth ll.

    “We have also experienced it during this administration. Between late April and early May this year, while President Tinubu was in London, after visiting the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia, where he attended the World Economic Forum, Vice President Shettima left Nigeria, first of all for Nairobi to attend the International Development Association (IDA21) Heads of State Summit. 

    “After returning, he left for Dallas, Texas, to attend the US-Africa Business Summit organised by the Corporate Council on Africa. President Tinubu returned home on 8 May. During this time, the government’s machinery did not halt.

    “The Constitution, a testament to our adaptability in the virtual age, does not explicitly require the physical presence of either the president or the vice president in the country at all times to fulfil his duties,” the statement reads. 

  • Shettima heads to Sweden for bilateral talks, investment opportunities

    Shettima heads to Sweden for bilateral talks, investment opportunities

    Vice President Kashim Shettima is set to embark on a two-day visit to Sweden, representing Nigeria in high-level bilateral engagements.

    Shettima will meet with Crown Princess Victoria, the Swedish Prime Minister, and key stakeholders on the authority of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Senator Shettima will use the visit to explore opportunities for strengthened collaboration between Nigeria and Sweden in areas such as ICT, innovation, education, digitalisation, sustainable transport, mining, and agriculture.

    According to a statement issued on Wednesday, October 16, by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima will also meet with key stakeholders in both the Government and Private Sector.

    Read Also: Shettima urges NSIA board to diversify portfolio

    The Vice President will also meet with Norrsken, a Stockholm-based venture capital impact investor, which recently launched Norrsken22, a USD 205 million tech investment fund for Africa.

     Norrsken22 is a technology growth fund, backed by over 30 prominent unicorn founders, partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs to build Africa’s next tech giants.

    The meeting with Norrsken will provide insights into how Nigerian entrepreneurs can benefit from this fund and further strengthen the technology ecosystem in Nigeria.

    Notably, 40% of the investments from Norrsken22 are expected to be allocated to Nigerian technology entrepreneurs.

    Twelve (12) Nigerian private sector companies that are doing business with Sweden are going independently as a private sector bloc.

    While in Sweden, VP Shettima is also expected to articulate Nigeria’s economic vision and the reforms being undertaken by the administration to create a business-friendly environment in Nigeria for investors. The myriad of opportunities that abound in Africa’s largest economy will also be showcased.

    The Vice President is expected back in the country on Saturday.

  • Jigawa explosion: Shettima calls for review of fuel transportation safety protocols

    Jigawa explosion: Shettima calls for review of fuel transportation safety protocols

    …pledges fed govt’s intervention

    President Kashim Shettima has announced immediate federal government intervention and called for a comprehensive review of fuel transportation safety protocols across Nigeria.

    The Vice President’s call came in the wake of the catastrophic tanker explosion in Majiya Village, Taura council area of Jigawa State early Wednesday, which claimed more than one hundred lives.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressed particular sorrow for the families who lost loved ones in this tragic incident and prayed that Almighty Allah grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

    In a condolence message on Wednesday, VP Shettima said “My heart aches for those who have had their families torn apart by this disaster.”

    “This devastating incident has shaken us all to our core. The Federal Government stands with the people of Jigawa. We are mobilising all necessary resources to support the injured and assist the families affected by this calamity,” he said.

    Read Also: Shettima urges NSIA board to diversify portfolio

    The tragedy, which occurred in Majiya has thrown the entire nation in grief. In response, the Vice President has directed the immediate deployment of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) personnel and resources to Jigawa State.

    “As we contend with this tragedy, let us also reflect on the importance of safety measures and public awareness to prevent such incidents in the future,” Shettima emphasized.

    “Every life is precious, and we must do all we can to protect our citizens.”

    The Vice President also commended first responders and medical personnel for their tireless efforts, stating their dedication “exemplifies the best of our nation’s spirit.”

    VP Shettima inaugurated the National Road Safety Advisory Council (NaRSAC) last Friday with a charge on members to align with global best practices in reducing traffic crashes.

    He tasked the council to set National Road Safety Strategy targets and ensure effective coordination between federal, state, and local governments to achieve shared road safety objectives.

    Vice President Shettima emphasized the critical nature of road safety, stating, “Road safety is not merely a matter of policy but a critical part of the lifeline that connects the people of this nation.”

  • Shettima charges NSIA board to diversify portfolio

    Shettima charges NSIA board to diversify portfolio

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) Board to diversify the nation’s investment portfolio, emphasising the need to support key sectors of the economy. 

    Shettima reminded the company board members of their stewardship role as “custodians of the collective patrimony of the people of Nigeria.”

    Speaking on Tuesday during a meeting with the Board of Directors of the NSIA at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Vice President Shettima outlined the administration’s vision for the NSIA, drawing comparisons with more established sovereign wealth funds.

    Acknowledging Nigeria’s late entry into the sovereign wealth funds, the VP said:”The Norwegian, the Qatari and the Saudi Arabians had a head start much earlier than we thought of establishing one, but the journey of a thousand miles starts with a step. It’s better late than never.”

    In a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima stressed the need to support the real economy, particularly highlighting the NSIA’s role in agricultural revitalisation.

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    “You have been supporting the nation in our agricultural revitalisation endeavours, especially in the purchase of agricultural inputs. I want you to sustain that tempo,” he urged.

    Assuring the board of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s full support in achieving national aspirations, VP Shettima emphasised the critical need for teamwork.

    “The moment you are working at cross purposes, we will not meet our goals and aspirations,” he cautioned.

    Chairman of the NSIA Board of Directors, Mr. Segun Ogunsanya, said the visit became necessary to enable members of the Board to introduce themselves to the Vice President.

    He thanked VP Shettima and all members of the National Economic Council (NEC), saying they treasure the confidence the Council has reposed in the Board.

    Ogunsanya said members of the NSIA Board of Directors were looking forward to submitting their last audited accounts to NEC, and then sharing what the NSIA has done and what it intends to do, even as he assured that the principles upon which NSIA was founded will never change under his watch as Chairman.

    He noted: “The principles upon which NSIA was founded will remain unchanged – the principle of transparency, of accountability. These are the two pillars upon which NSIA was founded, and that is what I am committing to, on behalf of my colleagues at the Board of Directors.

    “We are here to make sure that the current generation and the future generation have something we are going to leave behind for them. We are here to make sure we give benefit to the economy, give benefit to the current citizens and the future citizens.

    “Beyond preparing for the future generation, we also know that we have an obligation to support the government during volatile times. We’ve done that in the past during COVID-19; we did make $150 million available to the government at that time.”

    Chairman of Air Peace Airlines, Allen Onyema, expressed optimism about the Nigerian government’s commitment to improving the aviation industry. 

    Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Onyema acknowledged that the global aviation sector has faced turbulence since the COVID-19 pandemic due to supply chain issues. 

    However, he noted that the Nigerian government is actively working to address these challenges and promote ease of doing business in the sector.

    Onyema praised the government’s efforts, particularly highlighting the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development under Festus Keyamo’s leadership. 

    “You can see the wonderful job Festus Keyamo is doing… He is performing wonders,” Onyema said. 

  • Return to core family values antidote for national development, says Shettima

    Return to core family values antidote for national development, says Shettima

    • VP: family-centric, grassroots solutions key to national development

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has said core family values play a crucial role in national development.

    The Vice President described those values as the cornerstone for building a stronger society.

    He listed them as love and mercy between spouses, maintaining harmony and balance at home, viewing marriage as a spiritual commitment and an act of worship, practising kindness and having a good character, seeking knowledge and guidance, and recognising the family’s responsibility in shaping individuals and the society.

    Shettima, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the President on General Duties in the Office of the Vice President), Aliyu Modibbo Umar, spoke at the weekend during a Muslim Family Summit in Abuja.

    The Vice President stressed the urgent need to reinforce traditional family structures as a grassroots solution to Nigeria’s pressing social and economic challenges.

    The Muslim Family Summit, which was attended by scholars, experts and members of the public, serves as a platform for discussing best practices in family life based on Islamic teachings.

    In his speech, titled: In Defence of the Family Order, Shettima recommended marriage counselling to equip couples with requisite knowledge and skills needed to build stable homes.

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    He said: “Its mission is more than a reality check—it is a guide, steering us towards embracing marriage not just as a worldly institution but as an act of worship.”

    Drawing instances from Islamic tenets, Shettima reminded the audience of the Qur’anic view of marriage is a source of tranquility.

    He said: “The family is not merely a social unit; it is the pillar of moral and social order in any society. Every family plays a role in producing individuals who either uphold or threaten the moral fabric of our communities.”

    The Vice President emphasised that adherence to these teachings could serve as a solution to many of the social issues facing the nation.

    He added: “When we build the family on the wrong foundation, we risk losing everything. But when we raise it upon sound Islamic principles, it becomes a fortress that preserves the values we hold dear.

    “As I call upon the Ummah to recognise the urgent need to guide this generation of couples, I find hope in this gathering of scholars and experts who share best practices rooted in the Qur’an and Ahadith.”

  • We’ll reverse growing unemployment rate — Shettima

    We’ll reverse growing unemployment rate — Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has pledged the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will reverse Nigeria’s staggering unemployment rate and low labour force participation.

    This, he said, is the impression of an unfavourable society the Human Capital Development (HCD) Programme is designed to avert under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Shettima made the promise on Saturday during the launch of the Nasarawa State Human Capital Development Strategy Document & Gender Transformative Human Capital Development Policy Framework in Lafia, the state capital.

    The Vice President emphasised that the administration’s goal is to empower Nigerians with globally competitive skills. This strategy, he noted, would enable Nigerian workers to excel both domestically and in the international job market.

    In a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said: “Nasarawa State’s commitment to the Human Capital Development (HCD) Programme, a lifeline for our nation, is built on the collective realisation that enough is enough.

    “Enough of the cycles that have held us back. Enough of the legacies of unplanned high fertility rates and alarming maternal and under-five mortality rates. Enough of our vulnerable populations facing low life expectancy.

    “Enough of the distressing data on our education system—whether it is the mean years of schooling, the high pupil-to-teacher ratios, or the staggering number of youths not in employment, education, or training. The unemployment rates, the growing informal sector, and low labour force participation must be reversed.

    “This is the dystopia our Human Capital Development Programme is designed to avert, under the mandate of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. For so long, at the National Economic Council, we have debated the ideal nation we wish to build and the pathways to achieve it.”

    Shettima noted that the quest for a reversal of the nation’s human capital challenges is at the heart of the HCD programme, which focuses on workforce development, education, and health – critical work he said the Tinubu administration has undertaken at the national level.

    The unveiling of a blueprint for Nasarawa’s future, he maintained, is a reaffirmation of the administration’s shared belief that the way forward for the nation lies in solutions fashioned to suit the unique realities of each state.

    The Vice President regretted what he described as the tragic reality of the ECOWAS region being ranked the lowest in the global Human Capital Development Index, assuring however that it should not be something to feel disheartened about.

    “Rather, it is an invitation for every country, and indeed sub-national entities, to rise to the challenge,” he added, pointing out emphatically that “every child must have access to quality education, equitable healthcare, even as the nation’s workforce must be equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in the 21st-century economy.”

    Read Also: Aiyedatiwa to pay Ondo workers N73,000 minimum wage

    Explaining that the government is not just committed to ensuring Nigerian youths acquire employable skills, the VP said the ambition transcends mere local success to empowering them to “export the acquired skills globally, competing at the highest levels of the international marketplace.”

    “Our partnerships with the private sector are critical in achieving this. By facilitating access to resources, expertise, and innovation, we aim to make human capital development the cornerstone of a more prosperous and competitive Nigeria,” he added.

    The VP attributed the launch of the strategy document and policy framework in Nasarawa State to the leadership and vision of Governor Abdullahi Sule, describing it as a forward-thinking approach that makes a difference.

    Announcing that the government at the centre has already moved beyond the first phase of the HCD by adapting strategies to current realities and shifting from theory to implementation, he said Nasarawa’s entry at this pivotal stage is a promising sign of progress.

  • Shettima launches NaRSAC to reduce traffic crashes

    Shettima launches NaRSAC to reduce traffic crashes

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has inaugurated the National Road Safety Advisory Council (NaRSAC), charging members to adopt global best practices to minimize traffic accidents.

    He therefore tasked the council to set National Road Safety Strategy targets and ensure effective coordination between the federal, state, and local governments to achieve shared road safety objectives.

    Speaking during the ceremony on Friday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Vice President Shettima emphasized the critical nature of road safety, stating, “Road safety is not merely a matter of policy but a critical part of the lifeline that connects the people of this nation.”

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    He further praised the Federal Road Safety Corps’ (FRSC) commitment, noting that the Corps has “consolidated a robust strategy to address the nation’s road traffic challenges” in its relatively short existence.

    The establishment of NaRSAC aligns with recommendations from the World Bank Country Capacity Review, which identified areas for improvement in Nigeria’s road traffic administration and safety management.

    In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima urged FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, to embrace these recommendations as “a catalyst for the much-needed reforms in this sector.”

    The Vice President also commended the seamless coordination between federal and state executives, as well as various government agencies saying, “This spirit of unity exemplifies the essence of working together for the common good.”

    The Vice President noted that the initiative is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to strengthen administrative capacities across government bodies.

    “I am confident that this intervention will enhance our transportation system and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Nigeria,” Shettima stated.

  • Nigeria, Japan strengthen ties to boost trade, development, food security

    Nigeria, Japan strengthen ties to boost trade, development, food security

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured the Japanese government of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and deepening trade ties in areas of infrastructural development, food security, and health, among others.

    This, Vice President Kashim Shettima stated today while assuring the Japanese government of enhanced cooperation with the federal government of Nigeria, as well as resolving all the grey areas involving bilateral relations between the two nations.

    Senator Shettima gave the assurance when a delegation of the Japanese government led by the outgoing- Ambassador of Japan to Nigeria, Mr. Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, and the President of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Dr. Tanaka Akihiko paid him a visit at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    Vice President Shettima’s consultation with the Japanese team was captured in a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha.

    “All the grey areas will be addressed. Luckily, the CBN Governor is here, and two of the major beneficiary ministries are represented at the highest level. Be rest assured that in a couple of days, we are going to resolve all the grey areas and put our relationship on a new pedestal,” the VP told the delegation.

    The Vice President applauded Ambassador Kazuyoshi for doing an outstanding job in anchoring the relationship between the two nations, noting that the presence of key actors in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including two ministers and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, accentuated the importance Nigeria attaches to its relationship with Japanese international development agency, JICA.

    VP Shettima expressed gratitude to JICA for its commitment to strengthening the ties between Nigeria and Japan through its contributions to development across critical sectors of the economy.

     Specifically, he thanked JICA’s President for the firm’s donation of a grant of ¥1.75 billion to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to strengthen the Centre’s diagnostic capacity.

     “Your Excellency, we are immensely grateful for JICA’s continuous commitment; words cannot adequately convey our depth of gratitude. Under the exemplary leadership of Dr Tanaka Akihiko, JICA has played a very vital role in strengthening the ties between our two nations.

    “Your contributions span across critical sectors of our economy and society, aligning seamlessly with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. I am glad you visited the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) yesterday where, again, you have given a grant of ¥1.75 billion for the strengthening of diagnostic capacity of the NCDC,” the Vice President said.

    Shettima also acknowledged JICA’s assistance in polio eradication, which he said helped Nigeria to achieve polio-free status in 2020.

    “We share in your vision of making Nigeria a hub for disease control in West Africa and, by extension, you can make it a hub for the whole of Africa because one in every four black men is a Nigerian. So, we implore you to further enhance the cooperation between our two nations. You are a silent giant. You don’t make too much noise,” he added.

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    To outgoing Ambassador Kazuyoshi, the Vice President wished him a fruitful and productive tour of duty in his next location.

    Earlier in his remarks, the President of JICA, Dr. Akihiko, sympathized with Nigeria over the flood that recently caused damage to many communities and deaths, especially in Maiduguri, Borno State, saying the sympathy is special because Japan has been a victim of natural disasters.

    Akihiko extended his gratitude to Nigeria and its citizens for understanding, supporting, and allowing JICA to participate in development projects in the country, noting that “the Ambassador of Japan, Mr Matsunaga Kasuyoshi, has done a good job in maintaining and improving the relations between Nigeria and Japan.”

    He said he also visited the Nigeria Information Technology Centre where he met with the Nigerian engineers and entrepreneurs, noting that he was impressed with their ingenuity and level of creativity, just as he stressed that it has formed the basis of collaboration with JICA.

    Speaking also, Ambassador Kazuyoshi disclosed that the Japanese government will hold an International Conference on African Development in Tokyo next year.

    He said while the Japanese government has paid great attention to the partnership with Nigeria, it would like to use the opportunity of the visit to strengthen the bilateral relationship between both countries.

    Also explaining the level of Japanese involvement in development in Nigeria, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Agribusinesses and Productivity Enhancement (Office of the Vice President), Dr. Kinsley Uzoma, stated that JICA has done well in supporting Nigeria in the area of food security emergency support loan.

    Dr. Uzoma emphasised that one of the most critical areas of support is the project to rehabilitate and reinforce the Lagos transmission substation. This initiative aims to provide an uninterrupted power supply to Apapa Wharf, ensuring 24-hour electricity.

    The project is instrumental in elevating the Nigerian port to meet international standards, he explained.

    Also, Present at the meeting were the Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari; Minister of Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Terlumun Utsev; CBN Governor, Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, and Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hadejia.

  • Tinubu committed to addressing food security – Shettima

    Tinubu committed to addressing food security – Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to tackling food insecurity and malnutrition in Nigeria. 

    The Vice President said a strengthened collaboration with global bodies and other key stakeholders would go a long way in supporting the efforts of both federal and state authorities.

    Shettima stated this on Monday when he received on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa, a delegation from the World Food Programme (WFP) led by its Executive Director, Mrs Cindy McCain.

    “The president has given his commitment towards addressing the core challenge of food security. He has declared a commitment towards tackling food insecurity and there is a need for us for further collaboration between the WFP and the government of Nigeria on strengthening food systems and improving nutrition in the country,” the VP stated.

    The Vice President said it was in line with the President’s vision for food security in Nigeria that “the federal government is introducing the school feeding programme to tackle malnutrition among children.”

    According to a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima sought further collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture and the WFP, especially in strengthening our food systems and fighting malnutrition.

    Recalling the support of the WFP to Borno state when he was governor, the VP noted: “Right from my days as a governor in Borno, we have had a very close working relationship with the WFP. They were there for us in our times of need, they stood by us and solidarized with us without playing to the gallery.

    “I thank you, most sincerely for all of your efforts and I want to request for more. The governor of Borno is a very committed and upright gentleman. He is fully committed to the welfare of the people and he needs more support. But the challenge in Borno as it is elsewhere across the country, is humongous,” he added.

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    In her remarks, Mrs McCain said she was in the country with her team to explore areas of further collaboration between Nigeria and the World Food Programme with the view to addressing the challenges faced by the people.

    She said the WFP is thrilled about the initiatives by the government to address the challenges of food security and malnutrition, noting that “the unique potential to explore Africa-led solutions to the challenges is exciting and commendable.”

    She pledged the organisation’s continued support and partnership with authorities at different levels in Nigeria to help alleviate the sufferings of the people especially in the areas affected by conflict.