Vice President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerians to focus on solving issues rather than staging protests, particularly in light of economic challenges and the planned national demonstrations over hunger and living costs.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Shettima highlighted the government’s commitment to addressing these pressing issues through participation in the Grand Challenges Nigeria (GCNg) Project. This global health initiative, in collaboration with the Nutrition Society of Nigeria (NSN), aims to combat malnutrition and food insecurity in the country.
Shettima acknowledged the hardships Nigerians are facing due to recent economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies. Despite these challenges, he emphasized that constructive solutions are preferable to protests, which he cautioned could lead to instability. “The right to protest is a democratic freedom, but when it leads to an unknown outcome, it risks creating chaos,” he said.
The GCNg Project, supported by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, will work to enhance nutrition and public health through innovative strategies. Shettima urged the NSN to push for innovation and deepen collaborations with the government and other stakeholders.
Professor Hafiz Abubakar, leading the NSN delegation, called for Shettima’s leadership in driving the project and securing ministerial backing. The Grand Challenges initiative, with over $1.6 billion invested globally, aims to empower communities and create sustainable impacts across Nigeria.
Senior Programmes Manager for Grand Challenges Nigeria, Godwin Bamsa, highlighted the project’s potential to transform Nigeria’s health, food systems, and related sectors.
Key members of the NSN delegation, including NSN President Professor Wasiu Afolabi and other prominent figures, were also present at the meeting, underscoring their commitment to advancing this critical initiative.
