VP Shettima’s Stand: Why Non-Involvement in Nuclear Weapons is Essential
Vice President Kashim Shettima, on July 7, 2025, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive nuclear test ban during a courtesy visit by Dr. Robert Floyd, Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organisation (CTBTO), at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s priorities are addressing poverty and climate change, not pursuing nuclear weapons, stating, “We have no business dabbling in anything that has to do with nuclear weapons.”
He highlighted the devastating consequences of nuclear conflict and praised the CTBTO’s global monitoring network of 337 stations for detecting nuclear tests, including all seven conducted by North Korea, while also aiding in disaster detection like tsunamis and earthquakes. Nigeria’s collaboration with CTBTO through agencies like the Nigerian Atomic Energy Commission (NAEC) and Nigerian Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NNRA) was commended for supporting global non-proliferation efforts.
Vice President Kashim Shettima clarified Nigeria’s position during a meeting on July 7, 2025, with the Executive Secretary of the Comprehensive Nuclear‑Test‑Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO). He emphasized that Africa, particularly Nigeria, is focused on professional challenges—like fighting poverty and tackling climate change—and has no role in pursuing nuclear weapons. Shettima stated:
“We are fighting poverty … We have no business dabbling in anything that has to do with nuclear weapons.”
🌍 Why It Matters
- Security first: Shettima stressed that nuclear armament or testing would only threaten continental stability rather than offer any strategic gain.
- Economic priorities: With Africa’s immediate concerns rooted in socioeconomic struggles, any deviation towards nuclear pursuits would divert vital resources.
- Global commitment: Nigeria reaffirmed its dedication to the global nuclear test ban, praising CTBTO’s surveillance infrastructure and collaborative role.
✅ Bottom Line
Nigeria under VP Shettima is unequivocally rejecting nuclear armament, prioritizing human and ecological welfare over military escalation. The message is clear: the nation’s focus remains on poverty alleviation, climate action, and international peace commitments.
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