Shettima urges states to lead Nigeria’s economic growth

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigeria's sub-national governments to spearhead the nation's economic growth by unlocking their unique local strengths and resources. Speaking at the Jigawa State Economic and Investment Summit, J-INVEST 2026, Shettima declared that the true measure of Nigeria's federal strength is reflected in the economic vitality of its individual states.

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The strength of our federation is measured not by the wealth of the centre alone, but by the awakening of its constituent parts.

"The strength of our federation is measured not by the wealth of the centre alone, but by the awakening of its constituent parts," Shettima stated. He stressed that every state possesses the potential for growth, urging governors and investors to "think local first" and harness their respective resources, talents, and opportunities. He added, "A federation truly flourishes because every state discovers what it can become through the full realization of its own economic potential."

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Every state must harness its resources, talent, and opportunities to achieve growth.

Delivering President Bola Tinubu's goodwill message, Shettima acknowledged the "tough times" but defended the federal government's economic reforms as essential for sustainable growth, despite requiring "sacrifice." He pointed to key initiatives aimed at attracting investors, including the Business Facilitation Act and foreign exchange liberalization, which he said have enhanced market transparency and confidence. He also noted the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council's (PEBEC) role in simplifying business registration processes.

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A federation truly flourishes because every state discovers what it can become through the full realization of its own economic potential.

Shettima highlighted the Electricity Act 2023 as a significant development empowering states to manage electricity generation, transmission, and distribution, creating opportunities for private investment. While praising Jigawa State for its substantial wheat output, he cautioned that Nigeria must improve its agricultural productivity. He cited Nigeria's average wheat yield of 1.5 metric tonnes per hectare, comparing it unfavorably with higher figures in Ethiopia and South Africa, underscoring the need for increased productivity.

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We are taking difficult but necessary decisions to place our economy on the path of sustainable growth. Those choices have required sacrifice, but they are the right choices.