In a significant move towards economic diversification, Vice President Kashim Shettima has outlined Nigeria’s commitment to prioritizing digital technology, the outsourcing industry, and the clean energy sector. The Vice President made this announcement during a courtesy visit to the presidential villa by Denmark’s Minister for Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy, Mr Dan Jorgensen.
Addressing Nigeria’s climate objectives under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, VP Shettima highlighted the imperative to attract investments in digital technology, clean energy, and various other sectors. He emphasized that the shift is crucial due to the diminishing role of the oil economy, making it imperative to explore alternatives.
VP Shettima noted, “We have a lot of opportunities for partnership and collaboration,” as he identified Nigeria’s population strength as a valuable resource for Africa’s transformation. He asserted that green and sustainable energy could fast-track the continent’s development.
Soliciting support from the Danish Government and the Global Centre on Adaptation for Africa and Nigeria’s Climate Action, VP Shettima emphasized the pivotal role of sustainable energy in Africa’s developmental aspirations. He sought their understanding and support to accelerate climate action, focusing on the most vulnerable people in Africa.
Commending Denmark for its role in global climate action, VP Shettima expressed pride in the country’s climate consciousness. He called for a mutually beneficial partnership, acknowledging the shared humanity in facing existential threats.
Touching on political instability in West Africa, the Vice President stated that Nigeria firmly opposes military coups, standing as a beacon of hope and stability in the turbulent region.
Danish Minister Jorgensen praised Nigeria’s leadership and commitment to climate sustainability, recognizing significant opportunities for collaboration between Denmark and Nigeria. He acknowledged Nigeria’s stability and positive influence in a region often facing challenges, commending the country’s role in advocating for the restoration of civilian rule in Niger.
The Minister drew a contrast between Nigeria’s stability and the recent coup in Niger, highlighting the commendable efforts to pressure coup leaders for the reinstatement of the civilian government.
Jorgensen expressed optimism about the future collaboration between Denmark and Nigeria on energy transition, citing the memorandum of understanding to be signed. He emphasized the importance of ensuring a just transition in the shift towards renewable energy sources, advocating for regular assessments of the needs of vulnerable groups.
Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, highlighted the government’s commitment to climate change initiatives. She emphasized the responsibility to preserve the world for future generations and called for cross-collaboration between Nigeria and Denmark in climate change and intercultural initiatives.
The meeting, attended by several dignitaries, discussed various aspects of Nigeria’s economic diversification and climate sustainability, setting the stage for future collaborations between the two countries. The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, released the information on November 13, 2023.
