Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima boldly proclaimed Africa’s emerging global significance during the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, drawing powerful parallels to historical narratives of continental transformation and potential.
VP Shettima spoke on Tuesday during a forum titled, “Roadmap to Co-create Investment Opportunities for Africa’s Frontier Markets,” at the ongoing annual meeting of the 2025 World Economic Forum ( WEF) in Davos, Switzerland.
Invoking Napoleon Bonaparte’s famous quote about China’s potential, Shettima asserted that Africa is “waking up from its slumber” and is poised to claim its rightful place among global powers. He emphasized the continent’s demographic advantage, highlighting its status as the “youngest continent” and positioning Africa as the next trajectory of global economic growth.
In a series of high-profile diplomatic engagements, Shettima demonstrated Africa’s collaborative leadership approach. He held a bilateral meeting with Botswana’s President Duma Boko, discussing strategic partnerships and mutual development opportunities. The meeting underscored the growing trend of intra-African cooperation and diplomatic solidarity.
The Vice President also quoted the late Nigerian military leader General Murtala Mohammed, reaffirming Africa’s independence: “Africa has come of age, it is no longer under the orbit of any extra-continental power, and it shall no longer take orders from any country, however powerful.”
During the forum, Shettima joined South African President Cyril Ramaphosa as a special guest of honor, further symbolizing the continent’s united front. He also met with World Trade Organization Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, whom he praised as “one of Africa’s finest.”
The discussions touched on critical areas of collaboration, including trade, investment, and diplomatic relations, signaling a strategic approach to leveraging collective strengths and addressing continental challenges.
