FG Seeks Stronger Nigeria-EU Ties To Tackle Malnutrition, Humanitarian Challenges

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called for the strengthening of relations between Nigeria and the European Union, particularly in addressing malnutrition and other humanitarian challenges.

Shettima expressed appreciation for the EU’s support, adding that there was a need for continued collaboration.

The vice president spoke during a courtesy visit by an EU delegation led by the outgoing EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, on Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

“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,” he told the envoy.

Noting Nigeria’s strategic importance to the EU, Shettima said, “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.”

The Vice President particularly commended Ambassador Isopi’s work in Nigeria, saying, “You have contributed immensely towards strengthening the relationship between the EU and Nigeria. You have midwifed many transactions and assisted in many humanitarian endeavours in the North East and the North West subregions.

“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.”