Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has expressed confidence that the country’s economy will experience significant growth by 2025, despite the ongoing challenges. In a speech at a one-day retreat for presidential aides and heads of units in his office in Abuja, Shettima highlighted recent improvements, including a notable increase in Nigeria’s crude oil production, which has now reached 1.8 million barrels per day.
Optimism Amidst Challenges
Shettima acknowledged the difficulties that have confronted Nigeria’s economy but reassured that the country is on the path to recovery and growth, thanks to the policies and leadership of President Bola Tinubu. According to Shettima, the administration is determined to turn around Nigeria’s fortunes and create a prosperous future for the younger generation.
He stated, “President Bola Tinubu is determined to change the fortunes of the nation. We all want to bequeath to the younger generation a united and progressive country. Yes, the economy has faced and is still facing challenges, but we have turned the corner. As of now, we are producing 1.8 million barrels of oil per day. The economy is on an upward trajectory, and I believe that in the new year, the economy will grow in leaps and bounds.”
Shettima’s comments underscore a sense of optimism that the economic challenges faced by the country, including fluctuating oil prices, inflation, and fiscal deficits, can be overcome through effective governance, strategic policies, and collaborative efforts.
Call for Unity and Effective Collaboration
The Vice President also called on presidential aides and all Nigerians to come together in support of President Tinubu’s efforts. He stressed the importance of teamwork and unity within the administration, urging all members of the presidency to work collectively toward the achievement of the country’s economic and developmental goals. Shettima remarked, “The country is greater than all of us. I urge you all to work as a team and as a family.”
This appeal for unity also extended to the broader leadership within the government. The Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Hassan Hadejia, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the need for efficient execution of tasks and improved strategic communication within the office. Hadejia noted that better collaboration between the office of the Vice President, various ministries, departments, and agencies would be critical in achieving the country’s goals.
Focus on Synergy and Collaboration
In addition to the remarks by Shettima and Hadejia, other aides at the retreat also emphasized the importance of synergy within the presidency:
- Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters, stressed the need for improved collaboration across the presidency to ensure that policies and initiatives are effectively executed.
- Dr. Aliyu Moddibo Umar, Special Adviser to the President on General Duties, encouraged aides to use their expertise, remain focused, and work diligently to fulfill their responsibilities.
Looking Ahead to 2025
While the challenges facing Nigeria’s economy are significant, Shettima’s message of optimism and unity suggests that the government is laying the groundwork for recovery and long-term growth. The government’s efforts to ramp up oil production, alongside strategic reforms and initiatives in other sectors, could play a vital role in fostering a more resilient and diversified economy.
As Nigeria aims to achieve robust economic growth by 2025, it will need sustained efforts in policy execution, governance, and national cohesion. With improved oil production, strategic reforms, and enhanced collaboration within the presidency, Shettima’s projection of economic growth “in leaps and bounds” may be within reach.
