Tinubu’s reforms driven by national interest, says VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated that President Bola Tinubu’s ongoing economic reforms are aimed at advancing the best interests of Nigerians.

Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a courtesy visit by executives of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA), Shettima emphasized that the Tinubu administration remains focused on creating a viable environment for sustainable business operations.

The NACCIMA delegation was led by the association’s newly elected National President, Mr. Jani Ibrahim. Addressing the gathering, Shettima highlighted major policy measures such as the removal of fuel subsidy, the unification of the foreign exchange rate, and tax reforms as evidence of the administration’s commitment to economic revitalization.

“I can assure you that Nigeria is ready for business, and you are the drivers of change,” Shettima declared. “I plead guilty to romancing with the business community and the manufacturing and productive sectors. This is how great nations are built — this is how Korea became what it is today.”

He praised President Tinubu’s bold stance on removing the fuel subsidy despite resistance from powerful interests, saying the move was long overdue and essential for national development. “The oil cabal fought back, but he refused to budge. He stood his ground because he acted in the best interest of Nigerians,” Shettima said.

He further noted that Tinubu, with a background in finance and experience as a former financial controller at Mobil, understands the language of commerce and remains committed to engaging the private sector in building the economy.

In his remarks, Mr. Jani Ibrahim acknowledged Shettima’s leadership roles as Chairman of the National Economic Council, National Council on Privatisation, the Bureau of Public Enterprises, the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, and the MSME councils.

He emphasized the importance of synergy between government and the private sector, stating, “National prosperity is anchored on strong collaboration between government and the private sector. We recognise the private sector as the engine of growth while the government sets the enabling framework.”

Ibrahim called for regular biannual consultations between the organised private sector and the Vice President’s office and urged that private sector representatives be included in key government decision-making bodies relating to trade, industry, and SMEs.