We have no business being poor. There are places in Nigeria where you can plant money and it will grow — VP Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria has no justification for poverty, stressing that the country’s vast agricultural potential can drive economic prosperity if properly harnessed.

Speaking at the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2026 in Davos, Switzerland, Shettima described Nigeria’s land resources as exceptionally fertile, noting that wealth creation is possible through modern farming practices.

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“We have no business being poor. Honestly, I’m speaking from the bottom of my heart because in certain parts of Nigeria, our land is so rich that if you can plant money, it can grow,” he said.

The Vice President urged Nigerians and policymakers to embrace modernity, improved agricultural techniques, and effective fertilisation to boost productivity across the country.

“All we need is to embrace modernity, improved agricultural practices, fertilization,” he stated.

Shettima lamented the low output of major crops such as rice and potatoes, pointing out that Nigeria’s yields remain far below global standards.

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“Right now, the yield on top of our crops like rice—two, three tons per hectare. In some climes, they produce ten tons per hectare. The same thing with potatoes. Most of our output is low compared to global standards,” he noted.

He further expressed optimism about Africa’s economic future, describing the continent as the next frontier of global growth, with Nigeria playing a central role.

“The trajectory of global growth is facing Africa. And Nigeria will certainly make or mar that destination,” he said.

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Highlighting Nigeria’s demographic strength, Shettima revealed that one in every four Africans is Nigerian, adding that by 2050, the country is expected to become the third most populous nation in the world, surpassing the United States.

By doing so, he emphasized the urgent need for strategic investment in agriculture and development to secure Nigeria’s future.

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