Vice President Kashim Shettima has asked for collaboration with the World Economic Forum (WEF) to boost economic development in Nigeria and across Africa. During a meeting with WEF President Børge Brende at the ongoing WEF Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland, Shettima focused on two major initiatives: the African Atlantic Gas Pipeline (AAGP) and restoring Lake Chad.
Shettima explained that the AAGP, which will link Nigeria to Morocco and other African countries, will transport natural gas to North Africa and Europe. The project is seen as an opportunity to improve energy security and support economic growth, especially amid Europe’s energy challenges and the rising global demand for energy due to developments like artificial intelligence. Shettima mentioned that some West African countries with gas reserves are ready to connect to the pipeline, making it a potential win for all.
“Nigeria is more of a gas nation than an oil nation. This is a huge opportunity for us to generate wealth and jobs,” Shettima said.
He also discussed the urgent need to restore Lake Chad, which has shrunk dramatically in recent decades. He proposed a plan to recharge the lake by redirecting water from the Congo River basin, which would help improve agriculture, provide clean energy, and ease food security issues in the region. Shettima said this could also help in tackling security issues, such as terrorism in the Sahel.
“The shrinking of Lake Chad has affected both the economy and security in the region. Restoring it will create significant benefits for agriculture and stability,” he said.
Shettima also shared updates on Nigeria’s economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu, which include removing fuel subsidies, aligning exchange rates, and introducing tax reforms. These changes are intended to steer the country toward long-term economic growth. He invited the WEF President to visit Nigeria and meet President Tinubu to discuss future collaboration.
With a population of 250 million, Nigeria is Africa’s largest economy and most populous country. By 2050, it is expected to become the third-largest country by population, surpassing the United States.
“Nigeria is key to Africa’s future, and we are excited to work with WEF to shape that future,” Shettima concluded.
