Shettima Praises Gates Foundation, Backs Stronger Nigeria Partnership

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has praised the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for its sustained investments and humanitarian support in the country, describing the foundation as a critical partner in Nigeria’s development journey.

Shettima gave the commendation on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the foundation at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The team was led by Hari Menon, President of the Foundation’s Global Growth and Opportunity (GGO) division.

The Vice President welcomed the foundation’s request to deepen collaboration with Nigeria, pledging government support to expand partnerships across key sectors, including digital transformation, agriculture, health, and nutrition.

He emphasized that the Gates Foundation has consistently played a vital role in advancing human capital development and improving healthcare outcomes in Nigeria.

According to Shettima, the federal government is committed to elevating the relationship, particularly in tackling malnutrition and strengthening the country’s health systems.

Highlighting agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, the vice president called for increased productivity through the adoption of modern technologies, improved farm management, and climate-resilient practices.

He noted that boosting agricultural output remains essential to growing Nigeria’s GDP, stressing the need for high-yield seed varieties, precision farming techniques, and improved irrigation systems.

Shettima also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, describing the country as a “sleeping giant” with the potential to surpass major global economies if reforms are properly implemented.

He reiterated the administration’s commitment to driving economic transformation under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking during the meeting, Menon said the foundation is looking to broaden its engagement with Nigeria to support ongoing reforms and long-term development goals.

He described the current period as a “remarkable moment” for the country, citing ongoing policy changes and reform efforts by the government.

Menon noted that the foundation’s work in Nigeria focuses on reducing maternal and child mortality, combating infectious diseases, and supporting economic opportunities for inclusive growth.

He added that Nigeria’s progress could serve as a model for other countries in the Global South.