Vice-President Kashim Shettima has defended the Federal Government’s economic reform agenda, insisting that President Bola Tinubu should be commended rather than criticised for policies he said are beginning to reposition Nigeria’s economy and attract fresh investment.
Speaking on Monday at the Delta State Economic and Investment Summit in Asaba, Shettima argued that the administration inherited a difficult economic landscape but has recorded measurable improvements through its reform initiatives.
Addressing participants at the summit, the vice-president pointed to growing investor confidence, rising capital inflows and stronger foreign reserves as indicators that the government’s economic strategy is producing results.
He noted that Nigeria’s external reserves have risen significantly despite ongoing global economic uncertainties. According to Shettima, the country has moved from a period marked by capital shortages to one experiencing renewed investor interest.
“When we were experiencing capital plight and scarcity, now we are experiencing capital inflows. Our foreign reserves have gone up to over $52 billion and counting in a turbulent world. Even the president deserves commendation and not condemnation,” he said.
The vice-president also acknowledged the role of economic experts who had helped explain the country’s financial challenges to Nigerians.
Shettima reserved special praise for Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, describing him as one of the early voices that publicly supported the administration’s economic direction. He recalled that the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria defended the reform agenda during the 2023 election period, despite widespread criticism and political pressure.
According to Shettima, Soludo demonstrated courage by maintaining that electoral success would be determined by grassroots support rather than intimidation or political attacks. The vice-president said such support reflected a commitment to long-term national development above partisan considerations.
Shettima also assured local and foreign investors that the Federal Government remains focused on creating a more business-friendly environment across the country.
He said the administration would continue collaborating with state governments to remove barriers affecting investment, improve the ease of doing business and encourage sustainable economic growth. According to him, strengthening partnerships with sub-national governments remains central to attracting more private sector investment and unlocking Nigeria’s economic potential.
The remarks come as the Federal Government continues to defend its economic reform programme amid mixed public reactions, maintaining that the policies are designed to stabilise the economy, improve investor confidence and lay the foundation for long-term growth.
