Nigeria Wants To Strengthen Its Alliance With The EU To Fight Malnutrition

In order to address malnutrition and other humanitarian issues in the nation, Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged for closer ties between Nigeria and the European Union.

He acknowledged the necessity for ongoing cooperation between the two partners and conveyed Nigeria’s gratitude for the EU’s support.

Speaking on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a goodwill visit by an EU mission headed by the departing EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, the Vice President conveyed her sincere gratitude for the ambassador’s accomplishments throughout her term.

“You have made a major contribution to the EU and Nigeria’s relationship being strengthened. He informed the envoy, “Your support in trade between our two countries and humanitarian initiatives in the North East and North West has been vital.

Senator Shettima stated, “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,” highlighting the country’s strategic importance to the EU. We value your dedication to and participation in some of Nigeria’s most significant programs.

With special praise for Ambassador Isopi’s efforts in Nigeria, the Vice President declared, “You have greatly strengthened the relationship between the EU and Nigeria.” In the North East and North West subregions, you have participated in numerous humanitarian endeavors and performed midwifery for numerous transactions.

“You have witnessed some of the pivotal events in the political development of Nigeria. You participated in the procedure that facilitated the present change. Before the elections of 2023, you took an active part in signing the peace agreement with political groups. Even when it comes to supporting humanitarian issues, you have been the main figure.

“We appreciate the EU’s ongoing participation and assistance, particularly with regard to development and humanitarian endeavors. More than ever, we need your help, especially to confront the security and humanitarian concerns in the Northwest,” he continued.

In response, Ambassador Isopi considered her three years in Nigeria, noting the advancements and partnerships made, and said, “It’s time for me to say goodbye after three unforgettable years.”

“Nigeria has been quite busy, and I am leaving with a heart that is even warmer than when I arrived. Nigeria has advanced significantly, with increased development and better infrastructure, the speaker continued.

The ambassador emphasized how closely the EU and Nigeria work together, especially with the vice president’s office.

“We’re proud of our collaboration on numerous programs with the Vice President’s office,” the speaker stated. We’ve been working hard, and your office has been leading the way.

“We want to help Nigeria maintain security and peace. We’re committed to and actively involved in the Northeast, but we’re also now paying more attention to the Northwest.

There, we just started a brand-new educational initiative. We will persist in endorsing the government’s humanitarian aid endeavors, encompassing novel initiatives in the fields of education and healthcare.

The EU is also quite engaged in economic development, working closely with your office on numerous initiatives, particularly in agriculture,” the ambassador said, highlighting the EU’s contribution to Nigeria’s economic growth. We are assisting important value chains, particularly in the North, since we are aware of how important it is to give young people jobs.

She stated, “We want to reinstate our continued engagement and renewed determination from the EU to work with Nigeria,” expressing confidence in the future of EU-Nigeria ties. I have no doubt that my successor would locate a suitable ally in Nigeria to advance our partnership.

Zissimos Vergos, the deputy head of the delegation, and Osaro Odewingie, the political adviser to the EU in Nigeria, were also present during the meeting.