Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between Nigeria and Tanzania, citing their shared visions for continental progress and unity.
Highlighting the historical connections between Nigeria and Tanzania as frontline players in the fight against apartheid and colonialism, the Vice President stressed the importance of bolstering their relationship.
These sentiments were expressed during a meeting with former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, as disclosed by Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, in a statement titled ‘VP Shettima seeks enhanced cooperation, regional integration with Tanzania.’
Shettima commended Tanzania for its legacy of leadership, stating, “Tanzania is a success story in Africa, blessed with remarkable leaders from Julius Nyerere to Samia Suluhu Hassan. It stands as a beacon of hope and stability in East Africa.”
The Vice President emphasized the necessity of strengthening economic and social bonds between the two nations, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
“Tanzania’s rapid development due to substantial gas reserves is promising,” said Shettima, adding, “The success of key African countries like Nigeria and Tanzania will yield benefits for the entire continent.”
He also lauded the Tanzanian government for supporting Nigerian businesses in Tanzania, citing entities such as United Bank for Africa, Guarantee Trust Bank, and Dangote, among others.
During his visit for a convocation ceremony at the National Defence College in Nigeria, former President Kikwete expressed Tanzania’s readiness to bolster business and diplomatic ties with Nigeria.
“We cherish the friendship and cooperation between our nations and are dedicated to further strengthening it,” remarked Kikwete.
Kikwete acknowledged the role of the Nigerian National Defence College in training Tanzanian military personnel, expressing optimism about deeper collaborations in defense, trade, and diplomacy.
Both leaders emphasized the significance of reviewing outdated agreements and advancing bilateral relations in the spirit of African solidarity.
Also in attendance at the meeting were Acting Tanzanian High Commissioner in Nigeria, Mrs. Judica Nagunwa; Director of National and Geo-political Affairs, Akin Oyateru; representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Baba Mohammed, and Private Secretary from the Office of the Former President of Tanzania, Medard Ngaiza.