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Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged state governments to embrace healthy economic competition by attracting investments, creating jobs and expanding local industries instead of relying heavily on federal allocations.

Speaking during an economic development forum in Abuja, Shettima said Nigeria’s long-term prosperity depends on the ability of individual states to unlock their economic potential through innovation, industrialisation and private sector partnerships.

He said states must position themselves as investment destinations by improving infrastructure, ensuring policy consistency and simplifying business regulations.

According to the Vice President, sub-national governments have enormous opportunities in agriculture, mining, tourism, manufacturing and digital technology, which can generate employment and increase internally generated revenue.

Shettima noted that the Federal Government is implementing reforms aimed at stabilising the economy but stressed that sustainable growth requires active participation from state governments.

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“Our states must compete positively. They should attract investors, support entrepreneurs and create environments where businesses can thrive,” he said.

He encouraged governors to strengthen vocational training programmes to equip young Nigerians with practical skills required in today’s labour market.

The Vice President also highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in delivering infrastructure projects and improving service delivery.

He said states that prioritise innovation, transparency and fiscal discipline would be better positioned to attract domestic and foreign investors.

Business leaders attending the forum called for greater collaboration between federal and state authorities to reduce multiple taxation and improve the ease of doing business.

Economic experts noted that greater competition among states could accelerate industrial development, reduce unemployment and stimulate regional economic growth.

Several governors present reaffirmed their commitment to implementing business-friendly policies aimed at attracting investments into agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy and technology sectors.

Shettima assured investors that the Federal Government remains committed to maintaining macroeconomic stability while supporting reforms that encourage entrepreneurship and economic diversification.

He said stronger collaboration between all levels of government would help create more employment opportunities, improve living standards and build a more resilient national economy capable of withstanding global economic shocks.