Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace, stability and economic cooperation across West Africa, affirming that the country will remain an anchor of regional diplomacy and security.
Senator Shettima delivered the assurance in Abidjan on Monday while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of Côte d’Ivoire’s President Alassane Ouattara, who was sworn in for a new term of office.
Addressing journalists shortly after the ceremony at the Ivorian Presidential Palace, the Vice President said Nigeria would strengthen its ties with neighbouring states to advance collective peace and development.
He highlighted that Abuja and Abidjan would take steps to expand cooperation in agriculture, trade and other strategic sectors.
Shettima conveyed President Tinubu’s congratulations to President Ouattara, expressing confidence that the Ivorian leader’s renewed mandate would further consolidate stability in one of West Africa’s most influential economies.
The swearing-in ceremony drew attendance from across the continent.
Heads of state from South Africa, Liberia, Senegal, Gambia, Angola and Ghana were present, alongside former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan.
The United States delegation was led by Jacob Helberg, the Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs.
In his inaugural remarks, President Ouattara thanked regional leaders for their presence, saying their show of solidarity reflected a shared commitment to regional unity.
He promised to intensify efforts to improve the welfare of Ivorian citizens and pursue stronger diplomatic collaboration for mutual benefit.
On the sidelines of the event, Vice President Shettima met with the World Bank’s Managing Director for Operations, Anna Bjerde.
The bank expressed confidence in the reform agenda of the Tinubu administration and pledged deeper collaboration with Nigeria in areas including energy expansion, job creation and gender empowerment.
Bjerde said the World Bank was exploring additional initiatives that could connect millions of Nigerians to reliable electricity.
She added that the institution was prioritising programmes aimed at improving access to education and opportunities for the girl-child.
During the meeting, Shettima outlined key reforms initiated by the federal government, including the administration’s tax overhaul.
He said the fiscal restructuring has begun to yield positive results and is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s economic base.
The Vice President noted that government policies were being shaped to convert the country’s large youth population into a demographic advantage.
He listed digital economy investments, agricultural productivity programmes, and gender-focused empowerment schemes as central pillars of the administration’s strategy.
Shettima commended the World Bank for its consistent support for Nigeria, reaffirming the government’s readiness to expand development partnerships.
