Abuja: Vice-President Kashim Shettima on Thursday proclaimed that Nigeria has emerged from the brink of economic collapse and is now on a path towards renewal and stability. Shettima made these remarks in Abuja during the national convening and report launch on ‘Strengthening the Nexus Between Democracy and Economic Growth in Nigeria,’ an event organised by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Shettima, who attended as the Special Guest of Honour, was represented by his Special Adviser on General Duties, Dr. Aliyu Modibo. He acknowledged that while the reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration have been challenging, they were essential to prevent the country’s economic decline. The administration tackled issues such as structural distortions, a burdensome fiscal regime from the fuel subsidy, and a foreign-exchange system plagued by arbitrage.
Shettima emphasized the necessity of confronting these economic challenges with decisive action, contrasting the previous reluctance that allowed imbalances to solidify. He argued that President Tinubu’s reforms aim to restore fiscal balance, enhance transparency, and re-establish economic credibility. Although these changes come with some discomfort, Shettima assured that Nigeria is on a trajectory towards shared prosperity.
The vice-president further highlighted the importance of democratic leadership that combines courage with empathy. He mentioned several welfare initiatives by the Federal Government, including the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), expanded social investment programmes, and the national consumer credit system. He also reaffirmed the president’s commitment to empowering local governance, ensuring democratic benefits reach rural areas as well as urban centers.
Shettima asserted that the true test of democracy is whether government decisions genuinely serve the people’s survival and wellbeing. He noted that growth statistics are meaningless if they fail to deliver tangible benefits, stressing the need for disciplined, courageous, and intelligent governance to achieve stability and trust.
In his remarks, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, echoed the sentiment that President Tinubu’s socio-economic reforms are beginning to yield positive results. Represented by Permanent Secretary on General Services, Ibrahim Kana, Akume highlighted the need for a maturing democracy that effectively serves its citizens despite ongoing challenges.
Akume suggested strengthening democratic institutions through credible electoral processes and reliable dispute resolution mechanisms. He called for a legislative environment that supports effective oversight and representation for all citizens. Akume also emphasized the importance of enhancing public spending quality by ensuring procurement integrity and utilizing data for monitoring outcomes.
He concluded by commending former President Goodluck Jonathan and the GJF for their contributions to nation-building and fostering dialogue on aligning economic logic with public acceptance. Akume assured stakeholders of the Federal Government’s commitment to evidence-led engagement and collaboration with the National Assembly, GJF, and other partners to ensure that democratic governance underpins inclusive economic growth.