Nigeria Poised for Economic Resurgence, Says VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the commitment of the President Bola Tinubu administration to boosting Nigeria’s economic growth and reforming the country’s healthcare system. The Vice President’s remarks were made during a courtesy visit from Mark Daniel Maloney, the Chair of the Trustees of the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Friday.

In his address, VP Shettima praised the significant contributions made by Rotary International and other key stakeholders toward Nigeria’s development. He emphasized that the Tinubu administration is dedicated to Nigeria’s economic revival and reform, stating, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fully committed to repositioning the Nigerian nation. He is a revolutionary leader who has made far-reaching decisions for the betterment of this country.”

Shettima expressed confidence in Nigeria’s readiness for an economic resurgence, highlighting the country’s potential for growth. He further called on Rotary International to expand its involvement in combating environmental issues, such as desertification and deforestation, through initiatives like the Great Green Wall project. He noted that aggressive environmental regeneration is critical, adding, “It’s a win-win for all.”

The Vice President also underscored the federal government’s commitment to investing in education, noting that it remains the ultimate game changer for Nigeria’s future. With Nigeria’s youthful population, with an average age of 16.9 years, Shettima stressed the importance of education in unlocking the potential of young Nigerians, asserting, “With education, within a generation, the son of a pauper can be a celebrated icon.” He pointed out that Nigeria’s demographic offers the country a unique opportunity for global growth and transformation, emphasizing, “One out of every four black persons is a Nigerian.”

Focus on Healthcare and Maternal Mortality

In a notable announcement, the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF) revealed a $5 million donation to the Rotary Foundation, aimed at addressing maternal mortality in Nigeria. This contribution is part of the wider efforts to tackle the critical health challenge of maternal deaths during pregnancy, which is a key concern for the Nigerian government.

Maloney, the Rotary Foundation Trustees Chair, commended Nigeria’s progress in healthcare, particularly in polio eradication, which he credited to strong government partnerships. He noted, “The last case of wild poliovirus in Nigeria was recorded in 2016, and since then, Nigeria has been declared wild poliovirus-free, along with the entire African continent.” Maloney also acknowledged the challenge posed by vaccine-derived wild poliovirus, stating that Rotary International would continue its efforts in collaboration with the federal government, WHO, UNICEF, and other global health organizations.

Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, also lauded Rotary International and SEOF for their impactful contributions. He highlighted the role of the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation in reducing maternal mortality, noting, “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is trying to crush maternal mortality, and there is an initiative to reduce mothers dying from complications during pregnancy.”

Pate further emphasized that contributions from foundations like SEOF were crucial to achieving the government’s goal of improving healthcare access and quality in the country. He also encouraged other wealthy Nigerians to follow suit and invest in public health initiatives.

Sir Emeka Offor’s Commitment to Healthcare

In his speech, Sir Emeka Offor reaffirmed his foundation’s ongoing commitment to supporting Nigeria’s healthcare system. He emphasized that the SEOF would continue to work closely with the government to ensure that the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu is realized, particularly in making healthcare services affordable and accessible to all Nigerians.

“We want to ensure that the intentions of the present government under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu are actualized. I will stop at nothing in supporting the government in achieving its objective of making health services affordable for all Nigerians,” Offor pledged.

Conclusion

VP Shettima’s remarks, along with the significant philanthropic efforts from Rotary International and the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation, underline Nigeria’s commitment to addressing its economic and healthcare challenges. The administration’s emphasis on youth empowerment through education, coupled with focused initiatives in healthcare and environmental regeneration, sets the stage for the country’s long-term growth and development.

The $5 million donation to the Rotary Foundation marks a significant step in reducing maternal mortality and improving healthcare outcomes, aligning with Tinubu’s vision for a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria.