Vice President Kashim Shettima has said that the reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration would fortify Nigeria’s economy for the growth and future benefit of all citizens.

Mr Shettima stated this during the inauguration of the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative (OTNI) on Monday in Gombe.

He described Mr Tinubu as a refined economic strategist who understood the balance between Nigeria’s present circumstances and the trajectory of the global landscape.

According to him, the present administration’s decisions, though difficult, are being implemented in the best interest of Nigeria’s economic prosperity.

Mr Shettima said the challenges being experienced as a result of the reforms were short-term.

He said, “Our routes to the future hinge upon our sensitivity to our realities.

“The tough decisions we have taken may pose short-term challenges, but rest assured, it is a strategic investment to fortify the foundations of our economy.

“The reforms in progress will not only weather the storms but usher in a future where we shall stand grateful for the resilience and foresight displayed in propelling our nation towards economic prosperity.”

On the Outsource to Nigeria Initiative, Mr Shettima said that it symbolised a pivotal collaboration between the public and private sectors.

According to Mr Shettima, the partnership aims to create millions of job opportunities and propel Nigeria’s business process outsourcing (BPO) and IT-enabled services sectors into unprecedented growth.

“OTNI is here to connect global companies with the abundant talents and capabilities inherent in Nigeria.

“This initiative marks a strategic leap forward, positioning Nigeria as an emerging outsourcing powerhouse ready to make an indelible mark on the global economic landscape.

“Nigeria is fortified by a colossal talent pool exceeding 200 million people and complemented by competitive labour costs, an evolving ICT infrastructure, unwavering government support, and a strategic location in proximity to European markets,” he said.

The vice president urged state governments to embrace the OTNI to create jobs for millions of youths across the country and achieve Mr Tinubu’s mandate of prioritising job creation.

(NAN)