Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived at the Mohammad Bin Abdulaziz International Airport in Madina, Saudi Arabia. His arrival marks the start of an important trip aimed at paying respects at key Islamic sites.
Upon arrival, Vice President Shettima was warmly welcomed by Abdulmohsen Bin Nayef Bin Hamed, the Deputy Governor of the Madina Region, along with Nigerian diplomatic representatives, including the Consul General of Jeddah, Ambassador Mu’azzam Nayaya. The reception highlights the importance of Shettima's visit and the growing ties between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia.
The Vice President's trip to Madina is primarily focused on a pilgrimage to the Holy Mosque of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and other revered Islamic sites. His visit will also include a journey to Mecca, where he will perform the Lesser Hajj (Umrah). This spiritual journey is a significant aspect of the Vice President’s visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
On December 20, 2024, Vice President Shettima is scheduled to meet with the President of the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in Jeddah. This important meeting will focus on collaborative financing for the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ Phase II), as well as improving coordination of IsDB-backed projects in Nigeria. These discussions are expected to have a significant impact on fostering agricultural growth and broader economic development in Nigeria.
Reports indicate that Shettima’s trip to Saudi Arabia comes right after his recent visit to Dubai, where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the commissioning of a $315 million oil production and storage facility owned by Oriental Energy Limited (OERL). The Vice President’s diplomatic engagements highlight his pivotal role in promoting Nigeria’s interests on the global stage. During his time in Dubai, he was seen off by key figures such as OERL’s Executive Chairman, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, the Executive Vice Chairman, Engr. Goni M. Sheikh, and other dignitaries, further underscoring the significance of his visit to the UAE.
After his engagement in Dubai, Vice President Shettima traveled to Saudi Arabia, where he will undertake the spiritual journey of Umrah in the holy cities of Madinah and Makkah, with his visit scheduled from December 16 to 19, 2024. Accompanying him on this important journey is the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, a key figure in Nigeria's political landscape.
For more details on Vice President Shettima's arrival in Saudi Arabia and his planned engagements, see the video below:
