Vice President Kashim Shettima recently stated that the federal government must maintain an active dialogue with the business community, arguing that ignoring employers prevents a government from truly understanding the economy. Speaking on behalf of the Vice President at the 5th Nigerian Employers’ Summit in Abuja, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar emphasized that the administration is focused on removing bureaucratic obstacles and digitizing processes to ensure that national reforms benefit businesses in every corner of the country, from Lagos to Kano and Aba.
Shettima highlighted that the private sector relies on dependable infrastructure, clear policies, and fair taxation rather than sentiment to remain competitive. He defended the difficult economic reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu, noting that sustainable prosperity requires both the foresight to envision change and the courage to execute it. The Vice President acknowledged the structural challenges the administration inherited, such as unsustainable fuel subsidies and a fragmented foreign exchange market, which necessitated a shift toward more transparent and market-driven systems.
The government’s current agenda seeks to rectify these foundations by reducing the tax burden, harmonizing administrative processes, and minimizing regulatory delays. Shettima noted that while businesses are willing to pay taxes, they struggle with excessive, redundant levies that hinder growth. By improving the ease of doing business and fostering macroeconomic stability, the government aims to rebuild investor confidence.
Adewale Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), echoed these sentiments, noting that the summit has consistently provided practical policy recommendations since its inception. He emphasized that the platform has played a crucial role in strengthening the relationship between the government and the private sector.
