Vice President Kashim Shettima has praised the sustained investments and humanitarian contributions of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in Nigeria, pledging stronger collaboration to advance the reform agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja while receiving a delegation led by Mr. Hari Menon, Shettima described the foundation as a critical partner in Nigeria’s development efforts.
He assured the delegation that the Federal Government would deepen cooperation in key sectors, including digital transformation, nutrition, agriculture, and healthcare.
“We deeply appreciate the Gates Foundation. It is our strategic partner in the drive to change the Nigerian narrative,” Shettima said, adding that the administration is committed to elevating the partnership, particularly in tackling nutrition challenges.
The Vice President also commended the foundation’s Nigerian team for their responsiveness and dedication, describing them as dependable allies in national development.
Highlighting Nigeria’s potential, Shettima described the country as the “sleeping giant of Africa,” stressing that improved agricultural productivity remains central to unlocking economic growth. He called for the adoption of modern farming techniques such as climate-resilient seeds, precision agriculture, and enhanced irrigation systems.
Earlier, Menon said the foundation’s visit was aimed at strengthening ties with Nigeria and supporting ongoing reforms under the Tinubu administration.
He described the country as being at a “remarkable moment,” driven by bold economic reforms and policy changes, noting that the foundation is committed to supporting long-term transformation.
According to him, priority areas include reducing maternal and child mortality, combating infectious diseases, and expanding economic opportunities for inclusive growth.
Menon added that Nigeria’s progress could serve as a model for other countries across the Global South, expressing optimism about the impact of strengthened collaboration with government and private sector stakeholders.
