Vice President Kashim Shettima has described Nigeria’s North-East as one of the poorest regions globally, calling for immediate intervention to tackle its extreme poverty and economic decline.
Speaking at a meeting with the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) management team at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Shettima warned that the region’s dire economic conditions have fueled insecurity and instability, including the emergence of militant groups like Boko Haram.
Citing a World Bank report, Shettima noted that if the North-East were considered a separate country, it would be poorer than Chad, Niger, and even Afghanistan.
“The North-East is one of the poorest places on earth. Its poverty is a direct contributor to the region’s insecurity,” Shettima said.
He commended the NEDC for its efforts to prioritize education through the Accelerated Senior Secondary Education Programme (ASSEP), describing it as a transformative initiative capable of lifting the region out of destitution.
Highlighting ASSEP’s innovative use of Virtual Reality (VR) headsets in education, Shettima praised the program’s ability to bridge educational gaps and enhance digital learning, reaching 600 teachers across 71 institutions with just 100 instructors.
“Infrastructure matters, but education is the real game changer. The NEDC’s investment in education and green technology is commendable and crucial for the region’s economic recovery,” Shettima stated.
He urged the NEDC, the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, and other stakeholders to enhance collaboration for greater efficiency, acknowledging the commission’s prudent management of resources despite intense scrutiny.
“The NEDC is one of the most scrutinized organizations in Nigeria, but its leadership remains focused on its mission,” Shettima concluded.
The Vice President’s call for urgent action underscores the critical need for sustained investment in education, technology, and regional development to secure a brighter future for the North-East.
Comments