Vice-President Kashim Shettima embarked on a significant diplomatic mission to Ethiopia, accepting a formal invitation from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali. This visit underscores the commitment of both nations to strengthen bilateral relations and explore collaborative opportunities in critical areas such as climate action, food security, and sustainable industrial development. Shettima’s participation in the launch of Ethiopia’s ambitious Green Legacy Programme highlights the shared concern for environmental sustainability and the recognition of the urgent need to address climate change. The programme, aimed at planting 20 billion tree seedlings over four years, aligns with global efforts to combat deforestation, enhance biodiversity, and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. This shared commitment to environmental stewardship sets the stage for deeper collaboration on climate action between the two nations.
The Vice-President’s itinerary includes visits to key industrial zones and integrated agricultural facilities across Ethiopia. This strategic focus on industrial and agricultural development reflects the mutual interest in fostering economic growth and enhancing food security. By touring sites such as the Adama Industrial Zone, Mojo Poultry Farm, Shera Dibandiba Mojo Family Integrated Farm, Lume Avocado Nursery Site, and the Bishoftu Pea Youth Farm, Shettima aims to gain firsthand insights into Ethiopia’s agricultural practices and industrial development strategies. This firsthand observation lays the groundwork for potential partnerships and knowledge sharing between Nigerian and Ethiopian stakeholders in these crucial sectors. The focus on agricultural innovation and industrial development reflects a commitment to sustainable economic growth and job creation in both nations.
The Green Legacy Programme, a central focus of Shettima’s visit, exemplifies Ethiopia’s commitment to environmental sustainability and its proactive approach to addressing climate change. The ambitious goal of planting 20 billion tree seedlings over four years demonstrates a significant investment in reforestation and biodiversity enhancement. By participating in the program’s launch, Shettima signals Nigeria’s support for Ethiopia’s environmental initiatives and emphasizes the importance of regional cooperation in tackling climate change. The program not only addresses environmental challenges but also holds the potential to create economic opportunities through sustainable forestry and associated industries.
Beyond environmental collaboration, the visit emphasizes the importance of bolstering bilateral ties in agriculture and industrial development. Nigeria and Ethiopia, as two of Africa’s largest economies, recognize the potential for mutual benefit through increased trade and investment in these sectors. Shettima’s tour of various agricultural and industrial sites allows for the exploration of potential partnerships and the identification of areas for knowledge sharing and technology transfer. This focus on economic cooperation underscores the commitment to sustainable development and the creation of economic opportunities for the citizens of both nations.
The State Dinner hosted by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in honor of Vice-President Shettima and his entourage symbolizes the strong diplomatic and cooperative relations between Nigeria and Ethiopia. This gesture of hospitality further reinforces the historical ties between the two nations and sets the stage for deeper engagement in various areas of mutual interest. The dinner provides an opportunity for high-level discussions and reinforces the commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Nigeria and Ethiopia share a long history of cooperation in areas such as military support, regional peacekeeping, and economic partnership. This visit builds upon this foundation and seeks to expand collaboration into new areas, particularly in climate action, food security, and sustainable industrialization. By engaging in high-level dialogues and exploring concrete opportunities for partnership, both nations aim to strengthen their bilateral relations and contribute to regional stability and development. The visit marks a significant step towards enhancing cooperation and fostering a mutually beneficial partnership between Nigeria and Ethiopia.
