Vice President Kashim Shettima has dismissed the notion that foreign aid is the solution to the economic challenges faced by nations in the global south.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2025 in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, on Thursday, January 23, Shettima called for a shift toward self-reliance and innovative solutions tailored to Africa’s unique potential.
During a panel discussion, Shettima emphasized the need to prioritize education, gender empowerment, and innovation to transform African societies. He urged African nations to leverage their abundant resources as they position themselves as pivotal players in shaping global economic growth.
“Yes, we have challenges,” Shettima admitted, “but those challenges are also pregnant with opportunities to re-engineer our society and build back better. The crisis has given us a unique opportunity, a unique window to invest in people—especially in education, gender empowerment initiatives, and smart agriculture—allowing us to leapfrog into the post-industrial revolution.”
Rejecting reliance on foreign aid, the vice president instead championed partnerships built on mutual respect. “I don’t believe in aid. I believe in partnership,” he said. “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.”
Shettima also highlighted Africa’s untapped potential, declaring, “My continent is the richest in the world, and the trajectory of global growth is facing Africa. Nigeria will either make or mar that transition.”
Expressing cautious optimism, Shettima concluded with a call to action: “I move in with confidence, with hope for a better tomorrow. But most importantly, I believe that the youth of Africa are the drivers of change in Africa.”
