Vice President Kashim Shettima has once again called upon Nigerians to exhibit patience as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu navigates the country through prevailing economic challenges inherited upon assuming office.
Speaking at the 2nd Chronicle Roundtable organized by 21st Century Media Services, VP Shettima assured that significant economic growth is on the horizon once the current sacrifices are surmounted. He emphasized forthcoming positive changes across various economic indicators such as inflation, per capita income, GDP, poverty reduction, and food security.
During his address, VP Shettima highlighted key policy decisions and the Economic and Social Agenda of the Tinubu administration. He particularly emphasized the removal of petroleum product subsidies, describing it as a pivotal move to address a major economic issue faced by the previous administration.
Acknowledging the tough nature of the decision due to its impact on citizens’ lives, Shettima stressed its necessity in light of fiscal challenges inherited. He underscored the grave economic implications of sustaining the subsidy regime, noting the dire debt servicing situation and the need for a prudent approach to prevent economic collapse.
Reflecting on the continuity of governance, Shettima emphasized the unavoidable nature of the reforms undertaken by the Tinubu administration. He pointed out the consensus among presidential contenders regarding the necessity of such reforms, highlighting the imperative of addressing economic sabotage and currency manipulation.
The event also featured notable figures including former Finance Minister Dr. Shamsudeen Usman, who praised the comprehensiveness of the Renewed Hope Agenda and emphasized the importance of policy consistency for long-term economic transformation. The need for critical analysis of government policies for national development was echoed by Malam Mahmud Jega, CEO of 2nd Chronicle Newspaper, underscoring the collective responsibility in shaping the nation’s development trajectory.
Attendees included Minister of Information Alhaji Mohammed Idris, Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters Dr. Hakeem Baba Ahmed, and leaders in the media industry such as Dr. Ishaq Moddibo Kawu, Mallam Garba Shehu, Mr. Segun Adeniyi, and Malam Mahmud Jega, among others.
