Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reiterated that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, are driven by the desire to secure Nigeria’s long-term prosperity despite opposition from entrenched interests.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Shettima said the administration is determined to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive. The delegation was led by NACCIMA’s National President, Jani Ibrahim.
Highlighting key policy initiatives, Shettima pointed to the removal of fuel subsidy, the unification of exchange rates, and ongoing tax reforms as crucial steps to reposition the economy. “Nigeria is ready for business, and you, the business community, are the drivers of change,” he said. “This is how great nations are built. This is how Korea became what it is today.”
He hailed Tinubu’s courage in taking decisive action on subsidy removal, despite strong pushback. “The oil cabal fought back, but he refused to budge. He stood firm because he acted in the best interest of Nigerians,” Shettima said. He also noted that Tinubu’s background as a financial controller in the private sector gives him a deep understanding of commerce and enterprise.
In his remarks, Ibrahim, who assumed office as NACCIMA President and Chairman of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) last month, praised Shettima’s leadership as chairman of strategic economic councils such as the National Economic Council (NEC) and the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC). “National prosperity is anchored on a strong collaboration between government and the private sector,” he said.
Ibrahim called for bi-annual consultations between the OPS and the Vice-President’s office. He also urged the inclusion of private sector representatives in critical government councils and committees focused on trade, industry, privatisation, and small and medium enterprises.
Leave a Reply