Shettima Pledges Education Reforms as UI Honours Him with Historic Alumni Award

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve to revamp Nigeria’s education sector through comprehensive reforms and strategic investments. He gave this assurance on Friday during a courtesy visit by the management of the University of Ibadan (UI), led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Kayode Adebowale, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. During the visit, Shettima received the university’s highest alumni honour, the UI at 75 Ambassador Plenipotentiary Award, in recognition of his exceptional service in both public and private sectors. The Vice-President obtained a Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics from the university in 1991.

Speaking at the event, Shettima described UI as the “greatest citadel of learning in West Africa,” recalling its rich history and global influence. “This is an honour I cherish deeply. When I was there, we had students from South Africa, Namibia, and even the Caribbean. There was a time when the King of Saudi Arabia was recommended for treatment at the University College Hospital, Ibadan,” he said. He assured the university’s management of President Bola Tinubu’s determination to mobilise resources from both public and private sectors to strengthen UI and other institutions nationwide.

Highlighting key initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Shettima pointed to the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) as a groundbreaking programme aimed at supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds. “NELFUND is the first of its kind, directly addressing the needs of underprivileged students,” he noted. On the economy, Shettima expressed optimism about Nigeria’s progress, stating, “Our economy has turned the corner; we have crossed the Rubicon, and we are on the path to sustained economic growth. Tax revenue has steadily increased. The President is an economic guru who understands the language of commerce.”

Earlier, Professor Adebowale commended Shettima’s achievements, stating that the Ambassador Plenipotentiary category was specially created for him. “You are a foremost alumnus of the University of Ibadan, the first and the best. We honoured some alumni as UI at 75 Ambassadors, but considering your position and accomplishments, we decided to create this special category solely for you. We came here to honour one of our own, someone who has excelled in banking, governance, and now national leadership,” the VC said.