Shettima Canvasses Stronger Ties With EU to Combat Malnutrition, Other Challenges
*Lauds union’s contributions as Ambassador Isopi bows out
Deji Elumoye in Abuja
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has canvassed the strengthening of relations between Nigeria and the European Union, particularly in addressing malnutrition and other humanitarian challenges in the country.
He expressed the nation’s appreciation for EU’s support, noting that there was a need for continued collaboration between the two partners.
Speaking while receiving in audience at the State House, Abuja, a delegation led by the outgoing EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, the vice-president expressed deep appreciation for the envoy’s contributions during her tenure.
“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.
“Nigeria 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.
Commending Isopi’s work in Nigeria, he said, “You have contributed immensely towards strengthening the relationship between the EU and Nigeria. You have midwifed many transactions and assisted in many humanitarian endeavors in the North East and the North West sub-regions.
“You have been around for some of the epochal moments in Nigeria’s political evolution. You were part of the process that midwifed the current transition. You were actively involved in signing the peace accord with political parties prior to the 2023 elections. You have been the focal person even in championing humanitarian causes.
“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,” Shettima further said.
Responding, Isopi reflected on her three-year tenure in Nigeria, highlighting the progress and collaborations achieved, declaring that “after three memorable years, it’s time for me to say goodbye.”
She said, “Nigeria has been busy, and I leave with an even warmer feeling in my heart than when I arrived. Nigeria has made great progress, with much more development and improved infrastructure.
“We’re proud of our collaboration with the office of the Vice President on many programmes. Your office has led the way, and we’ve been working diligently.
“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.”
