Vice President Shettima Highlights Tinubu’s Economic and Security Reforms in South-East
Federal infrastructure projects and agricultural support aim to drive regional growth in Nigeria.
1Regional Development Strategy
Vice-President Kashim Shettima announced that the Tinubu administration is prioritizing economic and security transformation in Nigeria’s South-east. Speaking at an APC rally in Abakaliki, he emphasized that federal investments in transportation, energy, and agriculture are essential to unlocking the region's long-term potential and addressing persistent development challenges across the area.
2Major Infrastructure Projects
The government is advancing several critical infrastructure projects, including the Calabar-Ebonyi-Benue-Kogi-Nasarawa-Abuja Superhighway. Additional developments like the Ndibe Bridge and the Enugu-Abakaliki-Ogoja Expressway are designed to improve regional connectivity. These roads aim to facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and manufactured goods, ultimately reducing logistical costs for businesses operating within the South-east region.
3Agricultural Support Initiatives
Ebonyi State remains a vital contributor to national food security, particularly through its rice and cassava production. The federal government is supporting local farmers with fertilizer distribution and interest-free FarmerMoni assistance. These programs, combined with rural road improvements, are intended to minimize post-harvest losses and significantly increase earnings for local agricultural producers.
4Security and Stability Efforts
Recognizing that economic growth requires safe environments, the administration has intensified security operations across the South-east. A key intervention includes the establishment of the Nigerian Army Recruits Training Depot at Amasiri-Edda in Ebonyi. These efforts aim to restore stability, ensuring that businesses and communities can operate without the threat of insecurity.
5Institutional Regional Frameworks
To foster sustainable development, the government has inaugurated the South-East Vision 2050 and approved the South-East Investment Company. Furthermore, the establishment of the South-East Development Commission serves as a formal body to coordinate regional growth. These institutional frameworks are designed to attract private investment and create long-term economic opportunities for residents.
6Human Capital and Welfare
Beyond physical infrastructure, the administration is focusing on human capital development through digital skills initiatives and employment programs. Thousands of Ebonyi residents have already benefited from the Presidential Conditional Grant Scheme. These welfare programs are part of a broader strategy to empower the local population and integrate them into the national economy.
7Political and Symbolic Ties
During his visit, Vice-President Shettima received the chieftaincy title 'Aka Ekpuchi Ọnwa' from traditional rulers in Ebonyi. This title, which translates to 'A Hand Cannot Cover the Moon,' symbolizes integrity and service. The gesture highlights the enduring friendship between Northern Nigeria and the South-east, reinforcing political support for the current administration.
8Future Economic Outlook
The government’s focus on road connectivity and agricultural productivity reflects a broader effort to integrate the South-east into Nigeria’s national trade network. By linking regional markets to the capital, officials expect to see improved business outcomes. Success will depend on the effective execution of these projects and sustained regional stability through 2027.