North East Faces Economic Crisis: “We Are Poorer Than Chad, Niger, And Even Afghanistan” – VP Shettima Raises Alarming Concerns

North East Faces Economic Crisis: “We Are Poorer Than Chad, Niger, And Even Afghanistan” – VP Shettima Raises Alarming Concerns

Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to sustain its progress in tackling educational and infrastructural challenges in the region.

According to Ireporteronline, Shettima emphasized that history would judge the commission favorably for extending its impact beyond infrastructure to include investments in education and green technology through the Accelerated Senior Secondary Education Programme (ASSEP).…….READ MORE 

Speaking at a meeting with the NEDC management at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Thursday, Shettima described ASSEP as a transformative initiative, stating that education is a powerful equalizer capable of uplifting even the most disadvantaged individuals.

He commended the commission and the Ministry of Regional Development for their efforts, particularly in advancing digital learning tools like Virtual Reality (VR) headsets, which he noted are revolutionizing education by improving engagement, knowledge retention, and accessibility.

Shettima called for greater collaboration among the NEDC, the ministry, and other stakeholders to enhance efficiency, evaluation, and skill development in technology, healthcare, and engineering.

Highlighting the region’s economic struggles, he pointed out that the North East is among the poorest areas in the world, even ranking below countries like Chad and Niger. He stressed that ASSEP’s role in capacity-building would be instrumental in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering development.

Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari Ahmadu, reaffirmed that ASSEP aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s vision to improve education through scholarships, infrastructure upgrades, and ICT advancements.

Meanwhile, NEDC Managing Director Mohammed Alkali outlined the commission’s ongoing efforts to revitalize education in the region, including teacher training programs, ICT centers, and the establishment of mega schools.

The meeting concluded with the presentation of VR headsets to the Vice President as part of ASSEP’s digital learning initiative.