Nigeria reaffirmed its leadership role in West African stability as VP Kashim Shettima attended President Alassane Ouattara’s inauguration in Côte d’Ivoire, calling for stronger cooperation and economic ties.
The ceremony, held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan on Monday, brought together regional and international leaders.
Representing President Bola Tinubu, Shettima conveyed congratulations to Ouattara and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity across the West African region. He also highlighted the importance of deepening bilateral relations in trade and agriculture.
In his address, President Ouattara thanked visiting leaders for their support and pledged to prioritise national reconciliation, economic stability, and stronger diplomatic engagement. The event was attended by leaders from South Africa, Liberia, Senegal,
The Gambia, Angola, Ghana, and former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan. The United States sent a delegation led by Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, Jacob Helberg, alongside ECOWAS officials and other international dignitaries.
On the sidelines, VP Shettima met with Anna Bjerde, Managing Director, Operations, of the World Bank Group, who praised Nigeria’s reform policies and pledged support for energy, job creation, and gender empowerment initiatives.
Shettima highlighted ongoing tax and economic reforms, investments in the digital economy, agriculture, and gender initiatives, noting that the measures are already yielding positive results.
Ms. Bjerde reaffirmed the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s energy sector and advancing education and opportunities for the girl child.
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