Shettima Advocates for Investment in Northern Nigeria's Human Capital

On a recent summit in Abuja, Kashim Shettima, the Vice President of Nigeria, urged for immediate investment in the human capital of Northern Nigeria, identifying it as the region's greatest challenge. He noted that the issue is not a lack of potential but rather inadequate investment in its people.

Shettima, representing the Tinubu Administration, described the Human Capital Development (HCD) 2.0 strategy as a roadmap aimed at improving Nigeria's human capital index score by 2030, targeting a rise of 0.6 places to position the country among the top 80 globally. He called on governors, policymakers, and development partners to focus on measurable outcomes rather than mere declarations, stressing that states bear the primary responsibility for delivering quality education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities.

The Vice President warned that failure to invest in the region's growing youth population could undermine future development and competitiveness, urging stakeholders to ensure commitments made at the summit translate into tangible improvements in citizens' lives, including better schools, healthcare facilities, and economic opportunities.