Vice President Kashim Shettima is set to depart Abuja for Sweden on a two-day visit to engage in crucial bilateral discussions on behalf of Nigeria.
The visit, initiated by President Bola Tinubu, aims to enhance collaboration between the two nations in various sectors.
During his working visit, Shettima will participate in high-level talks with key Swedish government officials, including a meeting with Crown Princess Victoria and the Swedish Prime Minister.
According to a statement from his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President’s agenda will focus on strengthening partnerships in areas such as ICT, innovation, education, digitalisation, sustainable transport, mining, and agriculture.
In addition to government engagements, Shettima is expected to meet with stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.
A highlight of the visit will be his meeting with Norrsken, a Stockholm-based venture capital impact investor.
Norrsken recently launched Norrsken22, a $205 million tech investment fund dedicated to Africa, with a significant portion of investments—40%—earmarked for Nigerian technology entrepreneurs.
This meeting aims to provide Nigerian entrepreneurs with insights on leveraging this fund to bolster the local tech ecosystem.
Furthermore, twelve Nigerian private sector companies engaged in business with Sweden will attend the meetings independently as a private sector bloc, enhancing the representation of Nigeria’s economic interests.
“While in Sweden, VP Shettima is also expected to articulate Nigeria’s economic vision and the reforms being undertaken by the administration to create a business-friendly environment in Nigeria for investors,” the statement added.
“The myriads of opportunities that abound in Africa’s largest economy will also be showcased.”
The Vice President is expected to return to Nigeria on Saturday. However, the exact date of his departure has not been specified, coinciding with President Tinubu’s current two-week vacation outside the country.