Vice-President Kashim Shettima has called for a formidable alliance among key players in governance to wriggle Nigerians out of poverty and enhance the quality of lives of all citizens.

Shettima spoke on Wednesday during the 144th meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He also emphasised the need for those in the business of governance to collaborate to create an environment where every Nigerians have the opportunity to thrive.

Shettima, however, acknowledged that Nigerians are in urgent need of quick and impactful measures, which President Bola Tinubu was solving through the implementations of long-term solutions.

‘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.’

He commended the efforts of development partners, particularly the co-chairman of Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Mr Bill Gates.

He also applauded the Chairman of Dangote Group of Companies, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who were at the NEC meeting.

He described Dangote and Gates as ‘two distinguished individuals whose commitment to Nigeria’s progress is unparalleled’.

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

‘ Their philanthropy is not seasonal but a steadfast commitment that continues to shape our nation’s future.

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‘ 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.

‘ Mr Gates, in particular, has been a steadfast friend of Nigeria, contributing immensely to our nation’s inclusive economic growth and the well-being of our people in both tumult and tranquility.

‘ The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has recently approved a significant investment-the Nigeria Cassava Investment Accelerator (NCIA).

‘ This initiative, championed by my office and hosted by the Lagos Business School in partnership with the Boston Consulting Group, sets out to revolutionize our cassava industry, an essential pillar of our economy and food security.’

Shettima described sub-nationals in the federation as stakeholders in redefining the future of Nigeria.

‘ We are gathered here because none of us can fulfill the goals of guaranteeing the survival of our people in isolation.

‘ Whether by expanding access to quality education, improving healthcare, or offering skills training and job opportunities, it is clear that each one of us
has the power to influence policy and decisions at various levels.

‘ Our success relies on recognizing the socio-economic threats that have pulled us down the development index and, more importantly, on our resolve to walk the talk.’

Shettima expressed delight with the efforts and reforms made so far by state governors to boost agriculture.

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‘ However, we must not overlook the state of nutrition in our nation, which has led to stunting and other health challenges.

‘ This is a crisis that demands our unified attention and action. The future of this nation hinges on the health and well-being of our children,’ he added.

On his part, Mr Gates reiterated his bet on the incredible potential of Nigerians, noting that ‘Nigeria’s economic leaders have done some difficult, but necessary things, like unifying the exchange rate.

‘The next great hurdle is raising revenue. I understand this is a politically sensitive area where Nigerians a
re struggling. Incomes have fallen.

‘ Prices have soared. And like in many other countries, people are protesting.’

He described Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda as ambitious.

Gate, however, said the Nigerian leader has assembled a cabinet ready to meet the challenge, adding that ‘with limited resources, putting the funds to the best possible use is key’.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Accountant General of the Federation provided the council with an update on the Excess Crude Account.

According to him, the account currently stands at $473,754.57, the Natural Resources Fund has a balance of N3,451,078,538.57, and the Stabilisation Account holds N33,875,398,389.75.

Source: News Agency of Nigeria