Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for the strengthening of relations between Nigeria and the European Union, particularly in addressing malnutrition and other humanitarian challenges in the country.
Shettima recently expressed Nigeria’s appreciation for the EU’s support noting there was a need for continued collaboration between the two partners during a courtesy visit by an EU delegation led by the outgoing EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, the Vice President expressed deep appreciation for Ambassador Isopi’s contributions during her tenure.
Shettima said the country is the most populous nation on the continent and is projected to become the third most populous nation globally by 2050, after China and India. We appreciate your commitment and involvement in some of the most important programmes in Nigeria.
He said, “You have contributed significantly to strengthening the relationship between the EU and Nigeria. Your assistance in humanitarian efforts in the North East and North West, as well as in trade between our two nations, has been invaluable”.
“You have contributed immensely towards strengthening the relationship between the EU and Nigeria. You have midwifed many transactions and assisted in many humanitarian endeavours in the North East and the North West subregions.
“We value the EU’s continued engagement and support, especially in humanitarian efforts and development initiatives. We need your support now more than ever, particularly in addressing humanitarian crises and security challenges in the Northwest”.
Responding, Ambassador Isopi emphasised the close collaboration between the EU and Nigeria, particularly with the office of the Vice President assuring its support to the growth of Nigeria.
She said, “We aim to support Nigeria in peace and security. We’re very present and committed in the Northeast, and we’re now looking increasingly at the Northwest, We’re also very active in economic development, working closely with your office on several initiatives, particularly in agriculture. We’re supporting key value chains, especially in the North, as we know that creating jobs for youth is crucial.”
