Shettima Pledges Robust Engagement for Nigerians in Diaspora

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to actively involve Nigerians in the diaspora in shaping and supporting the country’s development trajectory, under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Addressing members of the Nigerian community in the United States during a side event at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Shettima emphasised that the expertise, investment, and influence of Nigerians abroad are vital to the nation’s progress.

The remarks were shared in a statement by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, on Monday, September 29.

Vice President Shettima encouraged Nigerians in diaspora to maintain confidence in the country’s direction, asserting that economic indicators are beginning to show signs of recovery and long-term potential.

He pointed to several encouraging developments: Foreign reserves edging close to $40 billion; Increased revenue allocations to state governments; Massive infrastructure investments across various sectors.

READ ALSO: Shettima Showcases Nigeria’s $200bn Energy Transition To Global Investors

Shettima also highlighted the administration’s commitment to building a future that includes the younger generation.

He cited the creation of the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a major step toward expanding educational access and economic opportunity for youth across the country.

Shettima who spoke on behalf of President Bola Tinubu was quoted saying: “I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart but I will have to come back to the US again and have a more robust engagement with you. Each one of you has value addition capabilities in your own way, and your experience is not something you can buy in the market. You have earned it.

“Continue to believe in Nigeria. Nigeria is on the right track. In the fullness of time, we will occupy our rightful place in the commity of nations.

“Our foreign reserve is crossing the $40 billion mark, the subnationals are raking in trillions of naira and we are seeing unprecedented infratructural investment across the entire country. We’re investing in the Nigerian youth and students as is the case with NELFUND.”