We Must Form Strong Alliance To End Poverty, Improve Lives, Shettima Tells Govs

The Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a formidable alliance among key players in government at all levels as well as development partners in the bid to wriggle Nigerians out of poverty and enhance the quality of life for all the citizens.

This, he said, would never happen if all those involved in the business of governance do not align with one another to create an environment where every Nigerian has the opportunity to thrive.

Shettima who spoke yesterday during the 144th meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) held at the Presidential Villa, suggested ways to address the immediate needs of the citizens, including building sustainable systems that empower them to become self-reliant and prosperous.

He however acknowledged that even though the problems inherited by the administration of President Bola Tinubu could not be solved overnight despite the long term solutions in progress, Nigerians were in urgent need of quick, impactful measures.

He said: “Our commitment to alleviating poverty and enhancing the quality of life for all Nigerians will never materialize if we do not align with one another. “We must strive to create an environment where every Nigerian has the opportunity to thrive.

“This includes not only addressing immediate needs but also building sustainable systems that empower our citizens to become self-reliant and prosperous.”

Shettima commended the efforts of development partners, particularly the Co-chairman of Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Mr. Bill Gates, and Chairman of Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who were at the NEC meeting, describing them as “two distinguished individuals whose commitment to Nigeria’s progress is unparalleled”

He said they have invested enormous resources into the welfare of Nigerians, spanning critical areas such as health, nutrition, agriculture, and education.

He stated: “Their philanthropy is not seasonal but a steadfast commitment that continues to shape our nation’s future. We did not survive the lowest points of our journey as a nation by the proactivity of the government alone; we did so because we remained partners in rain and sunshine.

“So, permit me to once again extend the nation’s deepest gratitude to our guests, whose empathy has always shone through whenever they are needed.