Nigeria's Open for Business: Shettima Urges Global Investors at 2025 WEF

By Achimi muktar

Vice President Kashim Shettima took center stage at the 2025 World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, delivering a compelling pitch to foreign investors. With a vision of economic transformation for Nigeria and Africa at large, Shettima called on global business leaders to seize the immense opportunities in Africa’s frontier markets, discarding negative stereotypes and embracing the continent’s readiness for growth.

A Vision for Africa’s Future

Themed “Roadmap to Co-create Investment Opportunities for Africa’s Frontier Markets,” the session showcased Africa as a vibrant hub of untapped potential. Co-chaired by Mirek Dusek, Managing Director of the WEF, and Marie-Laure Akin Olugbade, Senior Vice President of the African Development Bank (AFDB) Group, the discussions centered on the Humanitarian and Resilience Investing Roadmap for Africa.

Vice President Shettima underscored Nigeria’s commitment to modernizing its economy and strengthening its position as a leading investment destination in Africa.

“Nigeria is poised to invade the global business platform with modernization and robust investments,” he affirmed.

Nigeria’s Economic Potential

Shettima emphasized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to creating a business-friendly environment in Nigeria. Highlighting Tinubu’s credentials as a seasoned chartered accountant, Shettima expressed confidence in the administration’s ability to attract and sustain foreign investment.

“For 20 years, I was in the Nigerian banking industry,” Shettima shared, leveraging his extensive financial background to assure investors of Nigeria’s preparedness to engage in meaningful economic partnerships.

A Call to Action

In his remarks, Shettima challenged global investors to set aside the negative narratives often associated with Africa, instead focusing on the tangible opportunities the continent offers.

“Africa’s frontier markets are ripe for transformation, and Nigeria is leading the charge,” he said, urging participants to join in co-creating a brighter economic future for the continent.

A Collaborative Effort

The session underscored the importance of collaboration between public and private sectors to drive sustainable growth in Africa. Discussions at the WEF highlighted the role of resilience and humanitarian investments in unlocking Africa’s potential, paving the way for transformative partnerships.

Charting a New Path

With leaders like Shettima championing Nigeria’s economic prospects, the country is positioning itself as a beacon for investors seeking dynamic opportunities in Africa. The message from Davos was clear: Nigeria and its African peers are ready to embrace the future, inviting the world to join them on the journey.

As global investors turn their attention to Africa’s frontier markets, Nigeria stands as a gateway to unparalleled opportunities, backed by visionary leadership and a commitment to progress.