Shettima Urges States to Unlock Economic Potential

During the Jigawa State Economic Investment Summit on Wednesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima called on state governors to unlock their economic potential to contribute to Nigeria's growth. He stressed that the country's prosperity depends on the success of its constituent states rather than solely on the federal government.

Shettima highlighted the need for states to leverage their natural resources and human capital to stimulate sustainable development. He conveyed President Bola Tinubu's goodwill towards the administration's economic reforms, which, despite being challenging, are beginning to yield positive results.

Shettima outlined necessary reforms, including the Business Facilitation Act, liberalization of the foreign exchange market, and strengthening transparency to boost investor confidence. He described the Electricity Act of 2023 as a significant milestone, granting states greater control over electricity generation and distribution.

Shettima commended Jigawa State for contributing nearly 40 percent of Nigeria's wheat production in the last farming season, while also noting the need to improve the country's average wheat yield, which stands at 1.5 metric tons per hectare, below that of Ethiopia and South Africa.