Tinubu Taking On Oil Giants Alone – Shettima Makes Sh*cking Revelation

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his boldness in terminating the long-standing fuel subsidy policy, describing the move as a courageous decision that faced resistance from entrenched interests.

Reflecting on how past administrations grappled with the controversial subsidy issue, Shettima commended Tinubu for his unwavering resolve to bring an end to the era, despite stiff opposition from an influential oil cabal.

“While the fuel subsidy had burdened previous governments, he had the courage and conviction to eliminate it. The oil cabal pushed back, but he remained firm—motivated by his commitment to the welfare of Nigerians,” Shettima said during a meeting with the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

He stated that the reforms introduced by Tinubu’s administration, though challenging, are essential and taken in the nation’s best interest.

The NACCIMA delegation, led by newly elected National President Jani Ibrahim, visited the Vice President to explore potential areas of partnership between the public and private sectors.

Reaffirming the government’s dedication to economic recovery, Shettima assured the business community that the administration is actively working to create a conducive environment for genuine investment.

“Nigeria is open for business, and you are the agents of transformation,” Shettima told the group.

“I proudly admit my closeness to the business sector, especially manufacturing and production. That’s how great economies are built—look at South Korea,” he added.

Shettima highlighted key economic initiatives under President Tinubu’s leadership, including the removal of fuel subsidy, unification of exchange rates, and sweeping tax reforms, noting that these measures are crucial to stabilising the Nigerian economy.

He pointed to Tinubu’s business background as a major advantage, explaining that the President naturally understands the language of commerce and enterprise.

“This government belongs to the private sector because the President speaks your language. He was raised in the business ecosystem, managed companies, and once served as the financial controller of Mobil.”

NACCIMA Calls for Stronger Government–Business Ties

In his remarks, Jani Ibrahim thanked Shettima for his leadership roles, particularly as Chairman of the National Economic Council (NEC), National Council on Privatisation (NCP), and Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC).

“National prosperity thrives on close collaboration between government and private enterprise. While the private sector drives growth, the government provides the framework,” Ibrahim said.

He advocated for more structured and regular consultations with the Vice President’s office, proposing bi-annual dialogue sessions to better align policy directions with the needs of the business community.

Additionally, he requested the inclusion of private sector representatives in strategic national councils and technical committees, particularly those focused on trade, industry, privatisation, and MSMEs.

Ibrahim was recently elected as President of NACCIMA and Chairman of the Organised Private Sector (OPS) during the association’s 65th Annual General Meeting, held in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The meeting signified a renewed commitment by the Tinubu-led administration to strengthen ties with Nigeria’s business sector as it continues to implement economic reforms amid global uncertainties and domestic pressures.