Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima has lauded the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for its unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s development, describing the organization as a pivotal stakeholder in the nation’s ongoing efforts to rewrite its economic and social narrative. Speaking during a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, the Vice President emphasized that the Foundation’s humanitarian aid and sustained investments are vital to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda.
The Vice President’s remarks came as he hosted a delegation led by Mr. Hari Menon, President of the Foundation’s Global Growth and Opportunity (GGO) division. During the dialogue, Shettima expressed profound gratitude for the Foundation’s interventions in human capital development, nutrition, agriculture, and healthcare. He noted that the Nigerian team of the Foundation has shown exceptional dedication, often working beyond regular hours to support the government’s objectives.
Elevating Partnerships for Economic Transformation
Addressing the delegation, Vice President Shettima underscored the administration’s intent to move the bilateral relationship beyond traditional aid toward a robust strategic partnership. He particularly highlighted nutrition as a priority area currently receiving the highest level of executive support. Drawing a parallel to Napoleon Bonaparte’s description of China, Shettima characterized Nigeria as a “sleeping giant” with the potential to surpass major global economies if its current trajectory of reform is sustained.
“We deeply appreciate the Gates Foundation. It is our strategic partner in the drive to change the Nigerian narrative. We need the Gates Foundation not just as a strong and consistent partner but as a major stakeholder in the Nigeria Project. Honestly, I want to assure you that we will elevate that relationship to a higher pedestal, especially in the area of nutrition.”
Revolutionizing Agriculture and Productivity
A significant portion of the discussion centered on agricultural productivity, which the Vice President identified as the engine for GDP growth. As an agricultural economist by training, Shettima stressed that the time for rhetoric has passed, and the focus must now shift to modern technologies and farm management. He advocated for the adoption of high-yield, climate-resilient seed varieties, precision farming, and advanced irrigation systems to ensure food security and economic prosperity.
In response, Mr. Hari Menon explained that the Foundation’s mission in Abuja was to align its resources with the reformist vision of the Tinubu administration. He noted that Nigeria is currently a “trailblazer” in the Global South, particularly in its efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality and eliminate infectious diseases. Menon reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to partnering with private sector innovators and in-country institutions to drive an inclusive economic future that serves as a model for the rest of the continent.
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