Shettima: Nigeria will drive Africa’s transition to global competitiveness

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to driving Africa’s growth through youth empowerment, education, and innovative agriculture. Speaking at the Financial Times Global Risk Roundtable during the 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, the Vice President highlighted the pivotal role African youths will play in reshaping the continent’s future.

Addressing global crises such as conflicts and economic uncertainties, Shettima stressed the importance of turning challenges into opportunities for societal reinvention. Drawing on the Chinese term “Wei Ji,” he noted that while crises signal danger, they also present opportunities for nations to rebuild and emerge stronger.

The Vice President outlined Nigeria’s strategic focus on education, gender-inclusive policies, and smart agriculture as pathways to achieving global competitiveness. He described these areas as essential for transitioning into the fourth post-industrial revolution, urging nations to prioritise investments in their people.

Rejecting a dependency on foreign aid, Shettima called for partnerships founded on equality and mutual respect. “I don’t believe in aid; I believe in partnership. I’d rather carry my poverty with dignity and work with others on an equal footing,” he remarked.

Shettima also expressed optimism about Africa’s abundant resources and its critical role in shaping global growth. He declared, “Africa is the richest continent, and the trajectory of global development points here. The youth of Africa will determine whether we succeed in making this transition.”

Highlighting the interconnected nature of global challenges, Shettima advocated for multilateral collaboration to address pressing issues like supply chain disruptions, humanitarian crises, and climate change. He urged African leaders to look inward while embracing global cooperation to achieve sustainable development.

Concluding his address, the Vice President underscored the urgency of investing in Africa’s younger generation, describing them as the “drivers of change” who will propel the continent to new heights.

Odigie Ehidiamen Kelvin