Shettima departs Abuja to represent Tinubu at Guinea inauguration, heads to Davos for WEF

Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of Guinea-Conakry’s President-elect, Mamadi Doumbouya, before proceeding to Davos, Switzerland, for the 56th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF).

In a statement issued by the Office of the Vice President, Shettima is scheduled to attend the presidential inauguration on Saturday, January 17, at the GLC Stadium, Nongo, Conakry, following Doumbouya’s electoral victory.

The Vice President’s presence at the ceremony is part of Nigeria’s broader diplomatic engagement under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, aimed at strengthening regional leadership, deepening economic cooperation, and promoting political stability across West Africa.

Nigeria’s participation also underscores its leadership role within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), particularly in supporting Guinea’s transition back to constitutional governance after four years of political transition.

Beyond diplomatic symbolism, the visit is expected to further boost bilateral trade relations between Nigeria and Guinea. Recent trade figures show that Nigerian exports to Guinea — notably manufactured goods and agricultural products — have risen to about $3.29 million.

After the inauguration, Vice President Shettima will travel to Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, to take part in the 56th World Economic Forum, scheduled to hold from January 19 to January 23, 2026.

The 2026 WEF, themed “A Spirit of Dialogue,” will bring together global leaders from government, business, civil society, and academia to foster collaboration, trusted dialogue, and innovative solutions to pressing global challenges.

Discussions at the forum will focus on the impact of frontier technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum computing, next-generation biotechnology, and advanced energy systems, with emphasis on responsible deployment to drive inclusive growth, job creation, and sustainable development.

During the meeting, Vice President Shettima is expected to engage international investors and policy leaders on Nigeria’s economic reforms, showcase investment opportunities, and project Africa’s role in shaping a resilient and inclusive global economy.

The Vice President is expected to return to Nigeria after the conclusion of his official engagements in Davos.