Vice President Shettima Advocates for Self-Reliance, Innovation at World Economic Forum
Davos-Klosters, Switzerland – Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for a shift from dependency on foreign aid to self-reliance and strategic partnerships in addressing economic challenges in the Global South. Speaking on Thursday at the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF), themed ‘Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,’ Shettima emphasized the importance of leveraging Africa’s resources to drive global growth.
The WEF, renowned for bringing together leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society, provided a platform for Shettima to outline his vision for sustainable development in Africa.
During a panel discussion, the vice president stressed the need for African nations to prioritize investments in education, gender empowerment, and innovation to transform their societies. He described Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges as an opportunity to lay a solid foundation for a prosperous future.
“Yes, we have challenges, but those challenges are also pregnant with opportunities to re-engineer our society and build back better,” Shettima said. “The crisis has given us a unique window to invest in people—especially in education, gender empowerment initiatives, smart agriculture, and leapfrogging our economies into the post-industrial revolution.”
Rejecting the notion of foreign aid as a solution, Shettima advocated for partnerships based on equality and mutual respect. “I don’t believe in aid. I believe in partnership. I would rather carry my poverty with dignity and deal with people, nations, and companies on a pedestal of equality, not a master-servant relationship,” he asserted.
He described Africa as the “richest continent in the world” and expressed optimism about its role in shaping the trajectory of global growth. “Nigeria will either make or mar that transition. I move forward with confidence, cautious optimism, and hope for a better tomorrow. Most importantly, I believe the youth of Africa are the drivers of change,” Shettima added.
Earlier in the week, the vice president joined other global leaders to advocate for the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to leading the initiative and leveraging its market potential to accelerate digital transformation and economic integration across the continent.
