$600K For Flood Relief, $5M For Agriculture! Shettima’s UNGA Trip Brings Big Gains For Nigeria

Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria following the conclusion of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States. Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, touched down in Abuja on Sunday. During the assembly, he delivered Nigeria’s National Statement at the General Debate and participated in numerous bilateral meetings and events on the sidelines of the session.

According to his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President is set to join President Bola Tinubu in upcoming activities celebrating Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary.

During the UNGA, Nigeria secured significant support, including $600,000 for flood relief and $5 million for agricultural reforms, thanks to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The $600,000 pledge is aimed at flood relief efforts in Borno State, alongside other health sector initiatives. Additionally, a $5 million grant was awarded to Lagos Business School and partners to enhance industrial cassava agricultural economics.

Speaking on the Foundation’s support, Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s focus on food security and agricultural development, highlighting the Cassava Accelerator Programme as a key driver for the country’s economy. He also noted that Nigeria is taking a comprehensive approach to digitization and data exchange to transform public services.