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Tag: Shettima

  • Shettima to IsDB: Nigeria is ripe for investment 

    Shettima to IsDB: Nigeria is ripe for investment 

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that Nigeria is ripe for investment, citing the economic reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration as a major boost to investor confidence and the national business climate.

    Shettima made the remarks on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), led by the Head of its Regional Hub in Abuja, Mr. Hammad Hundal, at the State House, Abuja.

    In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said “It is an exciting opportunity to invest in Nigeria. 

    “The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has created the enabling environment and is still doing so by addressing most of the grey areas that hitherto served as a disincentive. So, this is a great time to invest in Nigeria,” he said.

    Senator Shettima pointed out that with well-thought-out interventions in human capital development, nutrition, agriculture, health, education and promotion of digital trade, the administration has demonstrated commitment in addressing challenges in the critical sectors.

    “This administration is poised to address the challenges that we have in key areas of human capital development, financial inclusion, infrastructure and nutrition. In fact, we have no option but to address most of these issues, and we will continue to act in the right direction,” he maintained.

    The Vice President applauded Nigeria’s partnership with the Islamic Development Bank, noting that both entities are based primarily on the country’s national interest.

    He urged IsDB to continue on the path already laid through its support for key government programmes such as the Special Agro-Processing Zones (SAPZ) programme, the i-DICE project and other initiatives, including the development of a Halal economy in the country.

    Read Also: Shettima: Nigeria building digital bridges to connect MSMEs with African markets

    He continued: “Let us cross-pollinate ideas and come up with a design for your Country Engagement Framework (CEF). I want you to record in your Country Engagement Framework, the development of a Halal economy, promotion of digital trade, financial inclusion and other areas. I urge closer collaboration to enable us to address some of these challenges.”

    Senator Shettima further noted that the bank’s programmes in Nigeria aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu across different sectors.

    He called for improved support from the bank in areas of agriculture, human capital development, gender inclusion, investment in education and health infrastructure, and nutrition.

    Earlier in his remarks, the IsDB’s head of regional hub in Abuja, Mr Hundal, said the bank was committed to scaling up its intervention through a holistic review of its Country Engagement Framework (CEF) in Nigeria to prioritise key aspects of the agenda of President Tinubu.

    He identified key areas of its intervention in the country, including economic infrastructure, support for the private sector, energy security, and the i-DICE programme.

    The highpoint of the meeting was the presentation of the bank’s Country Engagement Framework (CEF) to the Vice President by its Country Economist, Dr Obioma Asuzu.

    The CEF highlights key broad strategic objectives of boosting recovery, tackling poverty and building resilience, and driving green economic growth.  

    She said the IsDB CEF for Nigeria is driven by the country’s national priorities, partnerships with critical stakeholders, and resource mobilisation.

  • How we are scaling MSMEs for African markets, by Shettima

    How we are scaling MSMEs for African markets, by Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that the Tinubu administration is building digital “highways and bridges” to carry Nigerian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across national borders and into the heart of the African market.

    Speaking yesterday at the State House, Abuja, during the inauguration of the Oversight Committee for Nigeria’s hosting of the 4th African Union (AU) MSME Forum, the Vice President highlighted the government’s efforts to digitally empower small businesses and prepare them for the expanding opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    According to him, while over 83 per cent of employment in Africa lies in the informal economy, the continent is not short on ideas and digital innovation that offer an unprecedented window to compete with the rest of the world.

    Listing some of the administration’s policies and programmes in this direction, the Vice President recalled that Nigeria chaired and spearheaded the AfCFTA Negotiating Forum, and has aligned its investment, digital trade, and competition policies with the agreement.

    He noted that it is for this reason that Nigeria also established a Technology Export and Digital Trade Desk to support the nation’s entrepreneurs in exporting services and digital goods across Africa.

    Read Also: Secure data sharing key to Africa’s growth, says VP Shettima

    This, VP Shettima said, the i-DICE Programme, a 617.7 million dollar investment in digital and creative enterprises, and the 3 Million Tech Talent Programme, is set out to achieve by training Nigerian youths in coding, data science, and digital fluency to power the nation’s transformation.

    The VP conveyed the assurance of President Bola Tinubu that Nigeria is ready to lead in shaping Africa’s digital trade future, even as the nation is harmonising its laws to make cross-border commerce seamless, secure, and scalable.

    In a statement endorsed by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said: “We have reformed. We have invested. And we are resolved to see this transformation through. But none of us can achieve this in isolation.

    “That is why this forum is not just important. It is indispensable. It provides the blueprint, the platform, and the partnerships that will empower African MSMEs to become the heartbeat of our economic renewal.”

    Earlier, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, who is chairman of the organising committee, said the forum will provide a veritable platform for exchanging knowledge and ideas on MSME development and facilitate collaboration across the continent.

    He said the theme of the summit, which is on “building resilient MSMEs through digital innovation, market access and affordable financing for Africa”, aligns with the efforts of the Tinubu administration in supporting development and growth in the sector.

    On his part, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, who is a member of the organising committee, said hosting the 4th edition of the forum by Nigeria underscores growing confidence in Nigeria in the comity of nations.

    The forum, he pointed out, reflects the efforts made by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in providing a conducive environment for small businesses in the country.

    In the same vein, the Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Enoh, also a committee member, commended the leadership of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for prioritising the well-being and growth of small businesses, in acknowledgement of their contributions to the GDP and economic transformation.

    He assured that efforts would be put in place to ensure that Nigeria successfully hosts the forum, while small businesses in Nigeria leverage the platform to improve in areas of access to affordable finance and markets, among other benefits.

    On his part, the Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSME, Mr Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, who is secretary of the committee, said the team would work collaboratively to deliver a world-class event that reflects the efforts of the Tinubu administration, assuring that the country would be ready ahead of the opening ceremony on June 23 in Abuja.

    Also, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said the state hosts the largest number of MSMEs in the country, close to 70 per cent, adding that the government has taken steps to ease access to funds for these businesses through a N10 billion fund, the Lagos State – Bank of Industry MSME Access to Finance Scheme (LASMECO).

    Apart from Lagos State, Benue, Imo, Enugu, Katsina and Ekiti States are all involved in the sub-committees of the project.

    In separate remarks, the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Dr Olasupo Olusi; the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr Zacch Adedeji and the Director General of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr Charles Odii, who are members of the committee, pledged their commitment and support for the hosting of the meeting, noting that the benefits would positively impact local MSMEs and the overall national economy.

    Other members of the committee include Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa; Executive Director of NEPC, Mrs Nonye Ayeni; Executive Secretary, NIPC, Mrs Aisha Rimi; CEO, NEXIM Bank, Mr Abba Bello, and President of NACCIMA, Mr Dele Oye.

  • Shettima: Nigeria building digital bridges to connect MSMEs with African markets

    Shettima: Nigeria building digital bridges to connect MSMEs with African markets

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that the Tinubu administration is building digital “highways and bridges” to carry Nigerian Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across national borders and into the heart of the African market.

    Speaking on Monday at the State House, Abuja, during the inauguration of the Oversight Committee for Nigeria’s hosting of the 4th African Union (AU) MSME Forum, the Vice President highlighted the government’s efforts to digitally empower small businesses and prepare them for the expanding opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    According to him, while over 83 per cent of employment in Africa lies in the informal economy, the continent is not short on ideas and digital innovation that offer an unprecedented window to compete with the rest of the world.

    Listing some of the administration’s policies and programmes in this direction, the Vice President recalled that Nigeria chaired and spearheaded the AfCFTA Negotiating Forum, and has aligned its investment, digital trade, and competition policies with the agreement.

    He noted that it is for this reason that Nigeria also established a Technology Export and Digital Trade Desk to support the nation’s entrepreneurs in exporting services and digital goods across Africa.

    This, VP Shettima said, the i-DICE Programme, a 617.7 million dollar investment in digital and creative enterprises, and the 3 Million Tech Talent Programme, is set out to achieve by training Nigerian youths in coding, data science, and digital fluency to power the nation’s transformation.

    The VP conveyed the assurance of President Bola Tinubu that Nigeria is ready to lead in shaping Africa’s digital trade future, even as the nation is harmonising its laws to make cross-border commerce seamless, secure, and scalable.

    In a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said, “We have reformed. We have invested. And we are resolved to see this transformation through. But none of us can achieve this in isolation.

    That is why this forum is not just important. It is indispensable. It provides the blueprint, the platform, and the partnerships that will empower African MSMEs to become the heartbeat of our economic renewal,” he said.

    Earlier, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Sen. Ibrahim Hadejia, who is chairman of the organising committee, said the forum will provide a veritable platform for exchanging knowledge and ideas on MSME development and facilitate collaboration across the continent.

    He said the theme of the summit, which is on “building resilient MSMEs through digital innovation, market access and affordable financing for Africa”, aligns with the efforts of the Tinubu administration in supporting development and growth in the sector.

    On his part, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris Malagi, who is a member of the organising committee, said hosting the 4th edition of the forum by Nigeria underscores growing confidence in Nigeria in the comity of nations.

    The forum, he pointed out, reflects the efforts made by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in providing a conducive environment for small businesses in the country.

    In the same vein, the Minister of State for Industry, Sen. John Enoh, also a committee member, commended the leadership of President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for prioritising the well-being and growth of small businesses, in acknowledgement of their contributions to the GDP and economic transformation.

    He assured that efforts would be put in place to ensure that Nigeria successfully hosts the forum, while small businesses in Nigeria leverage the platform to improve in areas of access to affordable finance and markets, among other benefits.

    Read Also: Hajj inaugural flight: VP Shettima charges pilgrims on national responsibility

    On his part, the Special Adviser to the President on Job Creation and MSME, Mr Temitola Adekunle-Johnson, who is secretary of the committee, said the team would work collaboratively to deliver a world-class event that reflects the efforts of the Tinubu administration, assuring that the country would be ready ahead of the opening ceremony on June 23 in Abuja.

    Also, Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, Mrs. Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, said the state hosts the largest number of MSMEs in the country, close to 70 per cent, adding that the government has taken steps to ease access to funds for these businesses through a N10 billion fund, the Lagos State – Bank of Industry MSME Access to Finance Scheme (LASMECO).

    Apart from Lagos State, Benue, Imo, Enugu, Katsina, and Ekiti States are all involved in the sub-committees of the project.

    In separate remarks, the Managing Director of the Bank of Industry, Dr Olasupo Olusi; the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service, Mr Zacch Adedeji, and the Director General of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Mr Charles Odii, who are members of the committee, pledged their commitment and support for the hosting of the meeting, noting that the benefits would positively impact local MSMEs and the overall national economy.

    Other members of the committee include Ministers of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole; Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani; Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musawa; Executive Director of NEPC, Mrs Nonye Ayeni; Executive Secretary, NIPC, Mrs Aisha Rimi; CEO, NEXIM Bank, Mr Abba Bello, and President of NACCIMA, Mr Dele Oye.

  • Secure data sharing key to Africa’s growth, says VP Shettima

    Secure data sharing key to Africa’s growth, says VP Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on African nations to prioritise data safety and security as a catalyst for the continent’s socio-economic advancement.

    Speaking at the 8th Edition of the Network of Africa Data Protection Authorities (NADPA-RADPB) 2025 in Abuja on Tuesday, Shettima emphasised the need for collaboration among African data protection institutions to foster a secure, lawful data-sharing ecosystem.

    Represented by Senator Ibrahim Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, the Vice President said Africa stands to benefit significantly when data is shared responsibly across borders.

    The federal government also used the occasion to launch the Nigeria Virtual Privacy Academy, an initiative aimed at enhancing data privacy education.

    The event, held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, brought together participants from over 30 African countries, alongside delegates from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the United States. With the theme “Balancing Innovation in Africa: Data Protection and Privacy in Emerging Technologies,” the three-day conference explores strategies to align technological growth with privacy rights.

    Shettima noted that Nigeria’s journey toward data privacy dates back to the 1983 domestication of the African Charter, which laid the groundwork for constitutional and legislative frameworks, including provisions in the 1999 Constitution.

    Shettima said the conference was a testament to the progressive nature of the Nigeria’s legal framework for data protection, assuring that the government remained committed to the implementation of the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) 2023. 

    The VP stated that data was not just a digital resource but a human story told in numbers, which served as a tool to build economic trust.

    “As the African continent expands the scale of its African exchange, our ability to share data securely and lawfully will define our capacity to thrive. 

    “That is why forums like this are not only welcome but essential, they offer us the chance to cross-pollinate ideas, to nurture human capital, and to strengthen mechanisms for mutual legal assistance.

    “They allow us to create an African consensus on data governance that respects our people and reflects our values,” he said.

    He called on delegates and participants at the conference to utilise the opportunity to shape the right strategies for Africa in the area of data privacy.

    The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani who launched the Nigeria Virtual Privacy Academy, said the inauguration of the Academy would fast track implementation of the programmes already outlined by government for data safety, security and protection. 

    Dr Tijani said the academy which is the first of its kind in the continent, was aimed at delivering virtual training in data protection and privacy across both the public sector and the private sector.

    Dr Tijan said, “Recognising the opportunity across our continent, we have also set up a digital trade desk, a one-stop platform to promote Nigeria’s need to export, while unlocking global market opportunities for tech-enabled businesses. 

    “To fully harness the benefits of this and other initiatives, we see data as the backbone and digital protection as the shield.

    “As we digitise government services, open up digital trade corridors, and advance the need for digital identity on the platform, we must ensure that our value chains are secure, fair, and transparent. 

    “To this end, permit me to launch Data Protection Virtual Academy, which offers every Nigerian, from civil servants to private sector employees, to young job seekers, access to practical training on data protection principles and easy cyber identity.”

    He added that the academy would leverage the country’s cultural heritage through storytelling and using the platform to promote data privacy.

    Iro Adamou, Chairperson of NADPA, said the primary goal of NADPA was to foster collaboration amongst members and amplify African voices in its interaction with global partners in data protection.

    Represented by Mrs Immaculate Kassiat, the NADPA Vice President, Adamou said the protection of personal data was a shared responsibility across all African countries.

    “Human beings, regardless of gender, share common characteristics, and it is necessary to safeguard, preserve their rights of personal data in this evolving digital landscape.

    “Our presence in Abuja serves as a testament to the unity and shared aspiration of Africa, and together we are committed to advancing towards a trustworthy digital environment that safeguards the privacy of individuals.”

    The National Commissioner of NDPC, Dr Vincent Olatunji, said Nigeria was focused on enabling a future-proof regulatory environment that supported innovation and wide-advancing data protection as a fundamental right and driver of trust in the digital economy era.

    Olatunji said that within the few years of the establishment of the Commission, the data protection ecosystem has generated a cumulative revenue of over $10 million and created about 23,000 jobs.

    Olatunji listed other achievements as the adoption of the Public Private Partnership model, which led to the registration of 267 Data Protection Compliance Organisations, and the registration of over 40,000 data controllers and processors.

    “We have carried out over 5,047 compliance assessments, about 223 investigations, and 12 different organisations from different sectors have gone through remediation. 

    “In terms of revenue to the government, within less than two years, we were able to generate over $1.2 million to the government in terms of registration fees, audit filing fees, and compliance fees.

    “On the part of data controllers and processors, we have established, collaborated with data protection authorities across Africa, and signed Memoranda of Understanding,” he said.

    He stated that NADPA must continue to evolve as a central platform for continental data governance, adding that deeper collaboration was needed for enforcement cooperation, capacity building, and knowledge sharing. 

    “We also advocate for the development of interoperable data governance standards aligned with global best practices. 

    “I urge all member states who are yet to enact a data protection legislation to do so without delay, as strong data protection laws are not barriers to innovation, but enablers of an inclusive digital economy,” Olatunji said. 

  • Shettima, African leaders attend inauguration of Gabon’s President

    Shettima, African leaders attend inauguration of Gabon’s President

    In a powerful demonstration of continental solidarity and support for democratic transitions in Africa, Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima joined a host of African leaders yesterday to witness the inauguration of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon.

    The historic swearing-in ceremony which took place at the Stade de l’Amitié sino-gabonaise in the capital city of Libreville, marked the formal commencement of Nguema’s term as Gabon’s democratically elected president.

     Details from the swearing-in proceedings were contained in a statement issued by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha.

    President Nguema clinched victory in the April 12 presidential polls, triumphing over seven other candidates in a contest that signaled the nation’s return to democratic rule.

      Nguema, who had served as interim leader for the past 20 months following the ouster of longtime President Ali Bongo was greeted by a jubilant crowd and an array of dignitaries as he pledged a renewed era of governance, youth empowerment, and national development.

    Read Also: Eight degrees that can land you a high-paying UK job

     In his inaugural address, President Nguema thanked the people of Gabon for their overwhelming support and promised to work tirelessly for the country’s progress.

     He emphasized his administration’s commitment to tackling pressing national issues, including insecurity, crime, and inadequate access to clean water.

     “I am committed to leading a government that listens to its people, prioritizes security, and ensures that every Gabonese citizen can access the resources they need to thrive,” Nguema declared.

    He also underscored the importance of regional cooperation, urging peaceful coexistence among African nations and reaffirming his intent to collaborate closely with the United Nations in the interest of global peace and development.

    Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Shettima led Nigeria’s delegation to the event, accompanied by Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs, and Dr. Aliyu Modibbo, Special Adviser to the President on General Duties in the Office of the Vice President.

     The Nigerian delegation’s presence underscored the country’s ongoing commitment to supporting stable democratic transitions across Africa.

    The inauguration ceremony was a vibrant spectacle, featuring military parades, traditional music and dance, and displays of Gabon’s diverse cultural heritage.

    The colorful celebration symbolized a hopeful new chapter for the Central African nation.

     Alongside Vice President Shettima, more than a dozen African heads of state and former leaders attended the ceremony, including President Teodoro Obiang Nguema of Equatorial Guinea, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, former Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama, and President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone.

    Other dignitaries included Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno of Chad, Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, and Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, among others.

  • Shettima, African leaders attend inauguration of Gabon’s President

    Shettima, African leaders attend inauguration of Gabon’s President

    Vice President Kashim Shettima joined a host of African leaders on Saturday to witness the inauguration of President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema of Gabon.

    The historic swearing-in ceremony, which took place at the Stade de l’Amitié sino-gabonaise in the capital city of Libreville, marked the formal commencement of Nguema’s term as Gabon’s democratically elected president. 

    Details from the swearing-in proceedings were contained in a statement by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha.

    He clinched victory in the April 12 presidential polls, triumphing over seven other candidates in a contest that signaled the nation’s return to democratic rule.

    President Nguema, who had served as interim leader for the past twenty months following the ouster of longtime President Ali Bongo, was greeted by a jubilant crowd and an array of dignitaries as he pledged a renewed era of governance, youth empowerment, and national development.

    In his inaugural address, President Nguema thanked the people of Gabon for their overwhelming support and promised to work tirelessly for the country’s progress. 

    He emphasised his administration’s commitment to tackling pressing national issues, including insecurity, crime, and inadequate access to clean water.

    “I am committed to leading a government that listens to its people, prioritizes security, and ensures that every Gabonese citizen can access the resources they need to thrive,” Nguema declared.

    He also underscored the importance of regional cooperation, urging peaceful coexistence among African nations and reaffirming his intent to collaborate closely with the United Nations in the interest of global peace and development.

    Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Shettima led Nigeria’s delegation to the event, accompanied by Hon. Usman Bello Kumo, Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs, and Dr. Aliyu Modibbo, Special Adviser to the President on General Duties in the Office of the Vice President.

    The Nigerian delegation’s presence underscored the country’s ongoing commitment to supporting stable democratic transitions across Africa.

    The inauguration ceremony was a vibrant spectacle, featuring military parades, traditional music and dance, and displays of Gabon’s diverse cultural heritage. 

    Read Also: Shettima to represent Nigeria at Gabon President-elect’s inauguration

    The colorful celebration symbolized a hopeful new chapter for the Central African nation.

    Alongside Vice President Shettima, more than a dozen African heads of state and former leaders attended the ceremony, including President Teodoro Obiang Nguema of Equatorial Guinea, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, former Ghanaian President, John Dramani Mahama, and President Julius Maada Bio of Sierra Leone.

    Other dignitaries included Presidents Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno of Chad, Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo, Ismaïl Omar Guelleh of Djibouti, Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, and Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi, among others.

    Following the ceremony, Vice President Shettima and his delegation returned to Abuja, having fulfilled a diplomatic mission that reinforced Nigeria’s standing as a steadfast ally in the promotion of democratic governance on the African continent.

  • Shettima to represent Nigeria at Gabon President-elect’s inauguration

    Shettima to represent Nigeria at Gabon President-elect’s inauguration

    Vice President Kashim Shettima will today depart Abuja for Libreville, Gabon, where he will represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigeria at the inauguration of Gabon’s President-elect, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema.

    Oligui Nguema, who has served as Gabon’s transitional leader since August 2023 following a military-led ouster of former President Ali Bongo Ondimba, emerged victorious in the country’s April 12 presidential election. 

    According to official results announced by Gabon’s Constitutional Court, Nguema secured a sweeping 94.85% of the votes—amounting to 58,074 ballots.

    He defeated seven other contenders in the race, including former Prime Minister, Alain Claude Bilie-By-Nze, who came in a distant second with just 3% of the vote. 

    No other candidate managed to cross the 1% mark, according to the court’s final tally.

    Nguema’s overwhelming victory paves the way for a full return to constitutional civilian rule in the oil-rich Central African nation, which has been under transitional governance for the past eight months.

    According to a statement on Saturday morning by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, the Nigerian government reaffirmed its support for Gabon’s ongoing democratic journey and highlighted the strategic importance of stable governance in the region.

    “Nigeria remains supportive of the peaceful democratic transition in Gabon and reaffirms the government’s broader strategic interest in promoting democratic governance and regional stability in Central Africa,” the statement reads.

    Shettima is expected to join other regional and international leaders at the inauguration ceremony, after which he will return to Nigeria.

    Tinubu’s administration has made the promotion of democracy and good governance in Africa a central theme of its foreign policy, consistently advocating for constitutional rule and peaceful transitions across the continent.

  • Tinubu committed to building an economy that works for all – Shettima

    Tinubu committed to building an economy that works for all – Shettima

    Vice President Kashim Shettima has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is on a determined mission to transform Nigeria’s economic structure into one that benefits the majority, not just a privileged few.

    Speaking at the Kaduna Economic and Financial Inclusion Summit (KEFIS 2025) on Wednesday, Shettima noted that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda is focused on expanding economic opportunities for all Nigerians.

    Represented by the Deputy Chief of Staff in the Office of the Vice President, Senator Hassan Hadeja, Shettima revealed that Tinubu recently inaugurated the Presidential Committee on Economic and Financial Inclusion (PreCEFI), mandated to implement key reforms under the Aso Accord and steer the country toward inclusive economic growth.

    He said the committee, which he chairs, is tasked with driving reforms that align with the federal government’s ambition of building a trillion-dollar economy, while ensuring greater financial access for underserved communities across Nigeria.

    Shettima also commended Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, for his leadership, business-friendly policies, and commitment to financial inclusion, noting that his efforts have already attracted two major investments to the state.

    Read Also: Shettima charges RMAFC on improved revenue generation to boost FG’s economic reforms

    He said these successes were achieved through Governor Sani’s active engagement and his role in the Governance Committee (GovCo), which is central to advancing the financial inclusion agenda.

    “Your Excellency, Kaduna State, under your visionary leadership, has committed to the expansion of economic and financial inclusion and given it the utmost priority, and this is evidenced by your issuing the 1st executive order on financial inclusion by any state government at the very start of your administration.

    “Let me use this opportunity, therefore, to congratulate the Governor and the good people of Kaduna State for playing a leading role in access to finance in Nigeria,” he said

  • APC forum rejects calls to replace Shettima, backs Tinubu-Shettima 2027 ticket

    APC forum rejects calls to replace Shettima, backs Tinubu-Shettima 2027 ticket

    The North-Central All Progressives Congress (NC APC) Forum has rejected calls for President Bola Tinubu to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    In a statement on Wednesday, the forum’s chairman, Saleh Zazzaga, dismissed suggestions made by the North-Central Renaissance Movement that the Vice Presidency should be zoned to North-Central, insisting that the region remains committed to the Tinubu-Shettima ticket.

    “The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum rejects calls for President Bola Tinubu to drop Vice President Kashim Shettima as his running mate in 2027.

    “These calls are not emanating from stakeholders within the APC in the North-Central zone. We disassociate ourselves from such suggestions and hereby emphasize that our endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 election extends to Vice President Kashim Shettima,” the Forum affirmed.

    Zazzaga, who was a member of the APC’s 2023 Presidential Campaign Council, said the Forum was satisfied with Shettima’s performance and urged President Tinubu to “Disregard the antics of individuals and groups attempting to derail his administration.”

    “We are pleased with the role played by Vice President Kashim Shettima in President Tinubu’s administration. We also commend the harmonious working relationship between the President and Vice President, a collaboration envied by the opposition, who are now attempting to sow discord in the APC government,” the Forum stated.

    Reiterating its commitment to the President’s re-election bid, the Forum reaffirmed its promise to deliver six million votes for Tinubu in 2027, citing broad satisfaction with the administration’s performance in the North-Central zone.

    “We also reaffirm that the six million votes we promised Mr President remain intact. We are pleased with the appointment of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, ministerial portfolios, and other positions allocated to the North-Central, as well as the infrastructural projects being implemented in the zone,” the statement added.

    The Forum went further to list the region’s representation in key Federal Ministries, including the Ministry of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), Kwara State; Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, Niger State; Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, Plateau State; Ministry of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Nasarawa State; Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, FCT; and Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, Benue State, among other Federal institutions.

    The Forum highlighted that its endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term, initially made in December 2024, was grounded in the administration’s developmental strides and inclusive governance style.

    “The Forum evaluated the Federal Government’s programmes and initiatives, and it is evident that, since the advent of democracy in Nigeria, no other President has provided as many opportunities for the North-Central as President Bola Tinubu,” Zazzaga stated.

    He added that Tinubu’s government had launched more infrastructural projects in the region than any previous administration and praised the President’s economic reforms, which he said were already yielding tangible benefits.

    “The economic policies introduced by President Tinubu are already yielding results, as evidenced by the recent strengthening of the Naira in the foreign exchange market, increased oil production, and a rise in foreign reserves, among other achievements,” the Forum stated.

    They also cited progress in petroleum sector reforms, which they said had eliminated fuel scarcity and laid the groundwork for eventual price reductions, with positive implications for inflation control.

    Read Also: Shettima charges RMAFC on improved revenue generation to boost FG’s economic reforms

    “The North-Central APC Forum believes President Tinubu deserves a second term to oversee the continuation of these reforms, which are already bearing fruit. We call on all Nigerians to support his administration to improve the country’s situation further,” the Forum said.

    Emphasizing its resounding endorsement of the President’s leadership, the Forum affirmed, “After extensive deliberations, the North-Central APC Forum has given the President a commendation for his achievements in areas such as security, appointments, infrastructure, and economic management.

    “We firmly stand behind President Bola Tinubu, whose bold leadership has brought significant progress to our region.

    “We urge all Nigerians to rally behind the President and support his bid for a second term, enabling him to deepen the gains of his reform policies.

    “As we did in 2023, the North-Central APC Forum assures President Tinubu and his supporters that we will work tirelessly for his re-election in 2027.”

  • Shettima charges RMAFC on improved revenue generation to boost FG’s economic reforms

    Shettima charges RMAFC on improved revenue generation to boost FG’s economic reforms

    Vice President Kassim Shettima has urged the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to take an active role in the economic reforms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    Shettima stated that the RMAFC can assist the federal government in achieving its goal of repositioning the economy by optimising revenue generation through improved tax systems.

    The Vice President made these remarks yesterday while opening the 2025 Retreat for members of the Commission at the Ibom Icon Hotel and Golf Resort in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

    The three-day retreat has the theme: “Understanding the Role of the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission and Other Stakeholders/Agencies in Nation Building.

    “Shettima, represented by Ibrahim Natagwandu, technical adviser to the VP on public debt management and revenue mobilisation, expressed that the RMAFC holds a critical position in the fiscal health and cohesion of the country.

    He said, “This retreat is more than an orientation; it is a call to national service at a time when our country is undergoing major reforms aimed at repositioning the economy and optimising our revenue generation through improved tax systems.

    “The RMAFC occupies a critical place in this journey, as its work directly impacts the fiscal health and cohesion of our Federation.

    “This retreat offers you the opportunity to deepen your understanding of the Commission’s mandate, internal structures, intergovernmental dynamics, and evolving fiscal realities.

    “It is also a platform to align with the policy direction of the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in areas of revenue optimisation, economic diversification, and prudent public expenditure”.

    Speaking earlier, the Chairman of RMAFC, Mohammed Shehu, said that the Commission was committed to implementing its constitutional mandate of ensuring fiscal federalism for national unity and development.

    Shehu disclosed: “The Commission has reached an advanced stage in the process of coming out with a new revenue allocation and remuneration package for political and public office holders.

    “Furthermore, it is relevant committee(s) have started the process of carrying out the next phase of the reconciliation and verification of revenue collections from Revenue Collecting Agencies in collaboration with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).

    “The Commission is also committed to continued support and to promoting diversification programmes of the three tiers of government. In this regard, I implore the government at all levels to support agricultural development, tourism, and invest in the development of Solid Minerals as a means of diversifying the sources of revenue to meet increased expenditure requirements of governance for development.

    Akwa Ibom state governor Umo Eno commended President Bola Tinubu for taking bold economic decisions which have translated to more revenue to subnational governments in the country.

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    He said, “I want to express my profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for some of the bold steps he has taken to rejig Nigeria’s economy, even though we may experience certain levels of hardship associated with some of the policies that he has brought to bear.

    “Let me say this as governor, that some of these decisions have helped sub-nationals to receive more funding from the federation, and these have helped us as governors of sub-nationals to do projects that can improve the lives of our people.

    “If these steps were not taken, some states would not be able to pay salaries now; this means some states would have borrowed and amassed debts for generations yet unborn”.

    Eno, however, urged the RMAFC to address the issue of conflicting remittances regarding the 13% oil derivation to oil-producing states.

    “Before I close, let me appeal to the commission to look into the area of conflicting oil revenue remittances, one of the indices, as it affects our 13 per cent derivation fund to oil-producing states. We know you are doing some, but we think you can do more”, Eno said.